Comparison of Key Features CONFIDENTIAL Rules of Handicapping 09 25 2019.pdf · This presents a change to AGAs, golf clubs and golfers. 5.7 Low Handicap Index USGA has no such feature

Comparison of Key Features CONFIDENTIAL

Rules of Handicapping Comparison of Key Features

I. Fundamentals of Handicapping USGA vs. WHS

Rule 1 – Purpose and Authorization; Obtaining a

Handicap Index

1.1 Purpose of the World Handicap System No Change

1.2 Authorization to Use the World Handicap

System

USGA will issue a Handicap Index through AGAs and

their member golf clubs, and those affiliated with it for

handicap administration purposes.

1.3 Responsibilities of Player, Handicap

Committee and Authorized Association No Change

1.4 How to Obtain a Handicap Index

a. Joining a Golf Club No change

b. Designating a Home Club

New Rule helps with integrity of WHS ensuring one

Handicap Index for each golfer. For multi-members, all

clubs will be permitted to administer handicapping (edit

scores, etc.). Where any disagreements or conflict arise,

the player’s Home Club will have final authority on the

matter (and its AGA).

II. Scores for Handicap Purposes

Rule 2 –Scores Acceptable for Handicap Purposes

2.1 Acceptability of Scores

a. Played in an Authorized Format of

Play

No Change for USGA as all formats of play from the

authorized list (both 9 & 18 holes) will be acceptable for

handicap purposes.

b. Played by the Rules of Golf No change

2.2 Minimum Number of Holes Played for a Score

to be Acceptable

a. For a 9-hole Score Minimum of 7 holes for WHS

b. For an 18-hole ScoreMinimum of 14 holes for WHS (changed from minimum

of 13 holes today)

Rule 3 – Adjustment of Hole Scores

3.1 Maximum Hole Score for Handicap Purposes

a. Before a Handicap Index has been

Established

Equitable Stroke Control (ESC) is used today by USGA

with the same fixed maximum hole score for all holes.

The new Rule of Net Double Bogey will apply Par plus 5

strokes until a Handicap Index is established.

b. After a Handicap Index has been

Established

Equitable Stroke Control (ESC) is used today by USGA

with the same fixed maximum hole score for all holes.

The new Rule of Net Double Bogey that is already in use

in other parts of the world presents a significant change

to the USGA as it impacts the golfer directly. This new

rule will have other implications, such as how NDB and

Net Pars are determined.

3.2 When a Hole is not Played

No Change. The use of Net Par is the same as used by

the USGA.

3.3 When a Hole is Started but Player does not

Hole Out No Change (MLS used by USGA)


Rule 4 – Submitting a Score

4.1 Information Required for Scoring Record

a. General No Change

b. For Scores Prior to Establishing a

Handicap Index

New Rule recommends initial scores to be posted hole-

by-hole

4.2 Eligibility to Submit a Score No Change

4.3 Timeframe for Submitting a Score

New Rule states a score should be posted as soon as

possible on the day of play, after completion of their

round and preferably before midnight (local time) to

help facilitate the new daily Playing Conditions

Calculation procedure. (See Rule 5.6)

4.4 Certification of a Score No Change (Peer Review used by USGA)

4.5 Scores for Initial Handicap Index

USGA requires a minimum of five 18-hole scores (or 90-

holes) for initial Handicap Index. New Rule sets the

minimum number of scores at 54-holes.

III. Handicap Calculation and Updating a Handicap

Index

Rule 5 – Handicap Index Calculation

5.1 Calculation of a Score Differential Addition of Playing Conditions Calculation (see Rule 5.6)

a. For an 18-hole Score No Change (USGA use of stroke play score differentials).

b. For a 9-hole ScoreNo Change (follows USGA method of combining two 9-

hole scores)

c. For Minus Handicap Differentials No Change

5.2 Calculation of a Handicap Index

USGA’s average-based system is used for the new Rules

of Handicapping, but the best 8 of the most recent 20

scores will be used as opposed to 10 out of 20. This

will allow the system to be more responsive to good

scores and less responsive to bad scores.

a. For Fewer than 20 ScoresCalculation adjusted to accommodate new 54-hole

minimum number of holes for initial Handicap Index.

b. For 20 ScoresCalculation adjusted to accommodate the use of 8 of the

most recent 20 scores.

c. For Plus Handicap Index No Change

5.3 Maximum Handicap Index

USGA set the maximum Handicap Index at 36.4/40.4

for men and women. The new Rule will set the

maximum Handicap Index at 54.0 for both genders.

This is to ensure WHS is as inclusive as possible and

encourage participation.

To ensure equity for specific formats of play, further

safeguard against abuse, or to support pace of play,

Clubs have the discretion to implement a lower

maximum limit for certain competitions through its

Terms of Competition.

5.4 Frequency of Revision of a Handicap Index

A USGA Handicap Index is revised on the 1st and 15th of

each month. The new Rule will revise a Handicap Index

daily, enhancing the value to the golfer, but presenting

some challenges to the Club Handicap and Tournament

Committees.

A golf club can set an effective date to determine a

Handicap Index to use for competition purposes.

5.5 Aging of Scores and Lapsing of a Handicap

Index No Change (pending decision on Rule 5.1b)


5.6 Playing Conditions Calculation

USGA has no such feature today. This new Rule will be

an automatic calculation based on expected scores. The

calculation helps for when conditions on the day (I.e.

weather or course setup) has created abnormal

conditions where scores would likely have been better

(or worse if easy conditions) and should not be

discarded for handicapping purposes.

The Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) will be simple

and conservative in nature, depicting when abnormal

conditions has created a significant difference to the

Course as rated under normal conditions. This will also

help with seasonality where courses play longer or

shorter due to soft or hard/firm conditions.

This presents a change to AGAs, golf clubs and golfers.

5.7 Low Handicap Index

USGA has no such feature today. The new Rule is

designed to provide more insight into a golfer’s

demonstrated ability over time and is required to

support the limit on upward movement of a Handicap

Index. This will present a change to golfers.

(see Rule 5.8)

5.8 Limit on Upward Movement of a Handicap

Index

USGA has no such feature today. The new Rule limits

upward movement of a Handicap Index when movement

is more than 3 strokes above the player’s lowest index

within the trailing 12 months. In addition to this, a

player’s Handicap Index will be prevented from rising

more than 5 strokes above the player’s lowest Handicap

Index in the trailing 12 months. This will present a

change to golfers.

5.9 Submission of an Exceptional Score

USGA requires a minimum of 2 Tournament scores at

least 3 strokes better than current Handicap Index, but

is a reactive calculation as reduction is dependent on

second occurrence. The new Rule will apply a reduction

where the score differential is at least 7.0 or 10.0

strokes better than the player’s Handicap Index at the

time the round was played, resulting in an immediate

reduction to the score differential from a single score.

This features also includes all scores types as opposed

to only Tournament scores. This will present a change to

golfers.

Rule 6 – Course Handicap and Playing Handicap

Calculation

6.1 Course Handicap Calculation

New Rule will include an adjustment for the difference

between the Course Rating and Par in the calculation of

a Course Handicap and should help resolve the issue

with the application of section 3-5 today under the USGA

Handicap System (though only where Par is the same).

While this method is dependent upon Par, the Course

Rating and Slope Rating System continue to be the more

significant part of the calculation where strokes

exchanged between players remains the same.

6.2 Playing Handicap Calculation

a. Standard Calculation

New Rule carries all rounding through until the final step

removing errors from multiple rounding. Also

introducing new term ‘Playing Handicap’ that will

present change to golfers.

b. Calculation When Multiple Tees are

in Use

With Rule 6.1 above factoring the difference in Course

Ratings inherently, the new Rule will require the

difference between Pars where Par is different (Par 72 vs.

Par 70).


IV. Administration of a Handicap Index

Rule 7 – Committee Actions

7.1 Handicap Committee

a. Adjusting a Handicap Index No Change

b. Conducting a Handicap Review No Change

c. Withdrawing a Handicap Index No Change

d. Reinstating a Handicap Index No Change

e. Applying a Penalty Score No Change

7.2 Committee in Charge of the Competition

a. Terms of the Competition No Change

b. Other Actions No Change

Master Draft Version 8.0 Rules of Handicapping – August 2019

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Draft Rules of Handicapping for 2020

The Full Text of Proposed Rules and Appendices

‘MASTER VERSION’ DRAFT 8.0

United States Golf Association and R&A Rules Limited

FINAL DRAFT as of August 2019


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DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................................... 4

I. FUNDAMENTALS OF HANDICAPPING (RULE 1) ......................................................................................... 9

RULE 1 – PURPOSE AND AUTHORIZATION; OBTAINING A HANDICAP INDEX......................................................................... 9 1.1 Purpose of the World Handicap System ................................................................................................... 9 1.2 Authorization to Use the World Handicap System ................................................................................. 11 1.3 Responsibilities of Player, Handicap Committee and Authorized Association ....................................... 11 1.4 How to Obtain a Handicap Index ........................................................................................................... 13

1.4a Joining a Golf Club ...................................................................................................................................... 13 1.4b Designating a Home Club ............................................................................................................................ 13

II. SCORES FOR HANDICAP PURPOSES (RULES 2-4) ..................................................................................... 15

RULE 2 – SCORES ACCEPTABLE FOR HANDICAP PURPOSES ............................................................................................. 15 2.1 Acceptability of Scores ........................................................................................................................... 15

2.1a Played in an Authorized Format of Play ...................................................................................................... 17 2.1b Played by The Rules of Golf ........................................................................................................................ 19 The final determination is at the discretion of the Committee, based on the circumstances. ................................. 20

2.2 Minimum Number of Holes Played for Score to be Acceptable ............................................................. 22 2.2a For an 18-hole Score ................................................................................................................................... 22 2.2b For a 9-hole Score ....................................................................................................................................... 22

RULE 3 – ADJUSTMENT OF HOLE SCORES ................................................................................................................... 23 3.1 Maximum Hole Score for Handicap Purposes ........................................................................................ 23

3.1a Before a Handicap Index Has Been Established .......................................................................................... 23 3.1b After a Handicap Index Has Been Established ............................................................................................ 23

3.2 When a Hole is Not Played ..................................................................................................................... 25 3.3 When a Hole is Started but Player does not Hole Out ............................................................................ 26

RULE 4 – SUBMITTING A SCORE ............................................................................................................................... 29 4.1 Information Required for Scoring Record ............................................................................................... 29

4.1a General ....................................................................................................................................................... 29 4.1b For Scores Prior to Establishing a Handicap Index ...................................................................................... 30

4.2 Eligibility to Submit a Score .................................................................................................................... 30 4.3 Time Frame for Submitting a Score ........................................................................................................ 31 4.4 Certification of a Score ........................................................................................................................... 31 4.5 Number of Scores Required for Initial Handicap Index .......................................................................... 32

III. HANDICAP CALCULATION AND UPDATING A HANDICAP INDEX (RULES 5-6) .......................................... 33

RULE 5 – HANDICAP INDEX CALCULATION .................................................................................................................. 33 5.1 Calculation of a Score Differential .......................................................................................................... 33

5.1a For an 18-hole Score ................................................................................................................................... 33 5.1b For a 9-hole Score ....................................................................................................................................... 33 5.1c Rounding of Minus Score Differentials ....................................................................................................... 34

5.2 Calculation of a Handicap Index............................................................................................................. 34 5.2a For Fewer Than 20 Scores ........................................................................................................................... 34 5.2b For 20 Scores .............................................................................................................................................. 36 5.2c For Plus Handicap Index .............................................................................................................................. 36

5.3 Maximum Handicap Index ..................................................................................................................... 36 5.4 Frequency of Revision of a Handicap Index Update ............................................................................... 36 5.5 Ageing of Scores and Lapsing of a Handicap Index ................................................................................ 37 5.6 Playing Conditions Calculation ............................................................................................................... 37 5.7 Low Handicap Index ............................................................................................................................... 41 5.8 Limit on Upward Movement of a Handicap Index ................................................................................. 41


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5.9 Submission of an Exceptional Score ....................................................................................................... 42 RULE 6 – COURSE HANDICAP AND PLAYING HANDICAP CALCULATION ............................................................................. 45

6.1 Course Handicap Calculation ................................................................................................................. 45 6.1a For an 18-hole Round ................................................................................................................................. 45 6.1b For a 9-hole Round ..................................................................................................................................... 45

6.2 Playing Handicap Calculation................................................................................................................. 46 6.2a Standard Calculation ................................................................................................................................... 46 6.2b Calculation When Multiple Tees with Different Pars Are Used in a Competition ....................................... 47

IV. ADMINISTRATION OF A HANDICAP INDEX (RULE 7) ........................................................................... 48

RULE 7 – COMMITTEE ACTIONS ............................................................................................................................... 48 7.1 Handicap Committee ............................................................................................................................. 48

7.1a Conducting a Handicap Review and Adjusting a Handicap Index ............................................................... 48 7.1b Applying a Penalty Score ............................................................................................................................. 51 (See Diagram 7.1b/1.) ............................................................................................................................................... 52 7.1c Withdrawing a Handicap Index ................................................................................................................... 53 7.1d Reinstating a Handicap Index ...................................................................................................................... 53

7.2 Committee in Charge of a Competition .................................................................................................. 53 7.2a Terms of the Competition ........................................................................................................................... 53 7.2b Other Actions .............................................................................................................................................. 54

V. APPENDICES .......................................................................................................................................... 55

APPENDIX A - RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES .............................................................................................................. 55 APPENDIX B - PLAYER’S SCORING RECORD ................................................................................................................. 61 APPENDIX C - HANDICAP ALLOWANCES ..................................................................................................................... 65 APPENDIX D - HANDICAP REVIEW............................................................................................................................. 69 APPENDIX E - STROKE INDEX ALLOCATION .................................................................................................................. 70 APPENDIX F - ESTABLISHING PAR.............................................................................................................................. 72 APPENDIX G - THE GOLF COURSE, COURSE RATING AND SLOPE RATING .......................................................................... 72


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Definitions Acceptable Score A score from an authorized format of play which meets all the provisions set out within the Rules of Handicapping (see Rule 2).

Active Season The period of time when acceptable scores from a specified area should be submitted for handicap purposes, as determined by the Authorized Association where the round is played.

Adjusted Gross Score A player’s gross score, including any penalty strokes, adjusted for when: • The player exceeds their maximum hole score, • A hole is not played, or • A hole is started but the player does not hole out.

(See Rule 3.) Authorized Association An entity that is authorized, in accordance with the structure set out by the United States Golf Association (USGA) and R&A Rules Limited (The R&A), to implement and administer the Rules of Handicapping within its jurisdiction and to carry out the responsibilities as delegated to it by the authority through which it is authorized. Such an entity must be a multi-national, national or regional association, federation or union.

Authorized Format of Play A format of play eligible for handicap purposes, as determined by the Authorized Association where the round is played (see Rule 2.1a).

Bogey Player A player with a Handicap Index of approximately 20.0 for men and approximately 24.0 for women. Cap The procedure that reduces or limits the amount by which a player’s Handicap Index can increase when measured against the player’s Low Handicap Index. There are two trigger points within the cap procedure: • Soft cap – the point after which there is a reduction in the rate of upward movement of

a Handicap Index. • Hard cap – the point which sets the maximum limit for the upward movement of a

Handicap Index. (See Rule 5.8.) Certification of Score The verification of a player’s score. This can be evidenced in two ways: • By a marker’s physical signature or electronic certification, and/or • Through peer review.

(See Rule 4.4.)


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Course Handicap The number of handicap strokes a player receives, before handicap allowances, from a specific set of tees as determined by the Slope Rating and the difference between Course Rating and par. (See Rule 6.1.) Course Rating An indication of the difficulty of a golf course for the scratch player under normal course and weather conditions (see Appendix G). Exceptional Score A Score Differential which is at least 7.0 strokes better than the player’s Handicap Index at the time the round was played (see Rule 5.9).

General Play When an organized competition is not being contested and golfers are playing: • A casual round; or • Competitively, but not in an event organized by a Committee. Golf Club An organization that is permitted, through affiliation to its Authorized Association, to administer and manage the Handicap Index of those players who have designated it as their home club, in accordance with the requirements of the Rules of Handicapping. To qualify for affiliation, a golf club may be required to satisfy certain requirements as determined by its Authorized Association. Golf Course An area of land where golf is played, made up of the following five areas as defined in the Rules of Golf:

1. The general area, 2. The teeing area a player must play from in starting the hole being played, 3. All penalty areas, 4. All bunkers, and 5. The putting green of the hole being played.

Each hole may have multiple teeing areas and, for handicap purposes, a golf course is made up of a designated set of tees on each hole. As such, each set of tees (or golf course) should have a separate Course Rating and Slope Rating, including one for each gender where appropriate. Handicap Allowance The percentage of a Course Handicap recommended to create equity for all players participating in a specific format of play (see Appendix C).

Handicap Committee The entity established by a golf club or an Authorized Association which is responsible for

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ensuring compliance with the obligations of the golf club or Authorized Association under the Rules of Handicapping (see Rule 1.3 and Appendix A).

Handicap Index The measure of a player’s demonstrated ability calculated against the Slope Rating of a golf course of standard playing difficulty (that is, a course with a Slope Rating of 113) (see Rule 5.2). Handicap Review A procedure carried out by the Handicap Committee to determine if the Handicap Index of any member who has designated that golf club as their home club needs to be adjusted (see Rule 7.1a and Appendix D). Hard Cap (see Cap) Home Club A player’s primary golf club designated by the player to ensure their Handicap Index is managed in accordance with the Rules of Handicapping.

Inactive Season The period of time when scores in a specified area cannot be submitted for handicap purposes, as determined by the Authorized Association where the round is played. Jurisdiction The geographic territory in which an Authorized Association administers the Rules of Handicapping. Low Handicap Index The lowest Handicap Index achieved by a player during the 12-month period preceding the day on which the most recent score on their scoring record was played (see Rule 5.7). Member An individual who joins a golf club in a manner determined by club policy, which allows the player to obtain a Handicap Index. Most Likely Score The score a player records for handicap purposes for a hole that is started but where the player does not hole out (see Rule 3.3). Net Double Bogey A score equal to the par of a hole plus two strokes and adjusted for any handicap strokes applied on that hole. A net double bogey is a player’s maximum hole score for handicap purposes (see Rule 3.1). Net Par A score equal to the par of a hole adjusted for any handicap strokes applied on that hole (see Rule 3.2).


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Par The score that a scratch player would generally be expected to achieve on a hole under normal course and weather conditions, allowing for two strokes on the putting green (see Appendix F). The Authorized Association or, at the discretion of the National Association the golf club, is responsible for adjudicating par (see Appendix A).

Peer Review The process by which a score or Handicap Index can be confirmed or challenged (see Rule 4.4).

Penalty Score A score posted at the discretion of the Handicap Committee for a player who does not submit an acceptable score when required (see Rule 7.1b). Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) The statistical calculation that determines if conditions on a day of play differed from normal playing conditions to the extent that they significantly impacted players’ performance. Examples of conditions that could impact players’ performance include: • Course conditions, • Weather conditions, and • Course set-up. (See Rule 5.6.) Playing Handicap The Course Handicap adjusted for any handicap allowances or Terms of the Competition. It represents the actual number of strokes the player gives or receives for the round being played (see Rule 6.2). Rules of Golf The Rules of Golf as approved by the United States Golf Association (“USGA”) and R&A Rules Limited (“The R&A”), including any Model Local Rules the Committee adopts for the competition or the golf course. For the purpose of the Rules of Handicapping, all general references to the Rules of Golf should also be considered to cover the “Modified Rules of Golf for Players with Disabilities”.

Rules of Handicapping The Rules of Handicapping as approved by the United States Golf Association (“USGA”) and R&A Rules Limited (“The R&A”) and administered by the Authorized Association within its jurisdiction. Score Differential The difference between a player’s adjusted gross score and the Course Rating, reflecting the Slope Rating and the playing conditions calculation. It is the numerical value attributed to a score achieved on a golf course on a specific day that is posted into the player’s scoring record. A Score Differential must be an 18-hole value or its calculated equivalent. (See Rule 5.1.)


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Scoring Record A history of a player’s acceptable scores along with: • The player’s current Handicap Index, • The player’s Low Handicap Index, • Other details about each round (such as the date the round was played), and • Any applicable adjustments (for example, an exceptional score). (See Appendix B.) Score Type A designation that identifies the type of acceptable score that appears within a player’s scoring record (see Appendix B). Scratch Player A player with a Handicap Index of 0.0.

Slope Rating An indication of the relative difficulty of a golf course for players who are not scratch players compared to players who are scratch players (see Appendix G). Soft Cap (see cap) Stroke Index The value assigned to each hole on a golf course to indicate where handicap strokes are given or received (see Appendix E).


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I. Fundamentals of Handicapping (Rule 1) Rule 1 – Purpose and Authorization; Obtaining a Handicap Index

1.1 Purpose of the World Handicap System The World Handicap System includes the Rules of Handicapping and the Course Rating System. Its purpose is to make the game of golf enjoyable and to give as many golfers as possible the opportunity to:

• Obtain and maintain a Handicap Index, • Use their Handicap Index on any golf course around the world, and • Compete, or play a casual round, with anyone else on a fair and equal basis. This is achieved by:

• Establishing Course Ratings and Slope Ratings for each set of tees, based on length and playing difficulty (see Diagram 1.1).

• Applying adjustments to a Handicap Index to reflect the golf course being played and the format of play.

• Assessing the impact of playing conditions, using players’ scores on a specific day and applying adjustments when necessary.

• Limiting the maximum hole score for handicap purposes to ensure a Handicap Index continues to reflect a player’s demonstrated ability.

• Applying a uniform calculation for updating a Handicap Index for all acceptable scores submitted.

• Updating a Handicap Index on a daily basis, or soon thereafter. • Reviewing a player’s Handicap Index on a regular basis to ensure it continues to reflect

the player’s demonstrated ability.


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1.2 Authorization to Use the World Handicap System In order to use the World Handicap System, an Association must be authorized by the USGA and The R&A. Within its area of jurisdiction, an Authorized Association may:

• Use the Rules of Handicapping and the Course Rating System. • Use the registered marks of the World Handicap System. • Issue a Handicap Index either directly or, where delegated, through a golf club. • Issue a Course Rating and a Slope Rating.

The following trademarks and service marks are owned or licensed by the USGA and The R&A; all rights reserved: World Handicap SystemTM, WHSTM, Handicap Index®, Score DifferentialTM, Low Handicap IndexTM, Course HandicapTM, Playing HandicapTM, Course RatingTM, Bogey RatingTM, Slope® and Slope Rating®. Any organization that is not authorized to use the World Handicap System is prohibited from using these marks or any part of the World Handicap System. This includes the Course Rating System and the handicap calculation formula, except when the organization provides handicapping products or services to a golf club through an Authorized Association.

1.3 Responsibilities of Player, Handicap Committee and Authorized Association

Players, Handicap Committees and Authorized Associations all play an important role in ensuring the Rules of Handicapping are being implemented and administered appropriately. The main areas of responsibility for each key stakeholder are:

(i) Player A player is expected to: • Act with integrity by following the Rules of Handicapping and to refrain from using,

or circumventing, the Rules of Handicapping for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage,

• Attempt to make the best score possible at each hole, • Submit acceptable scores for handicap purposes as soon as possible after the round

is completed and before midnight local time, • Submit acceptable scores to provide reasonable evidence of their demonstrated

ability, • Play by the Rules of Golf, and • Certify the scores of fellow players.


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(ii) Golf Club/Handicap Committee • A golf club is affiliated to its Authorized Association and is responsible for ensuring

the Handicap Index of those members who have designated it to be their home club is administered in accordance with the requirements of the Rules of Handicapping.

• A Handicap Committee is established by a golf club and is responsible for ensuring compliance with the golf club’s specified obligations and responsibilities under the Rules of Handicapping.

• Where a National Association administers and manages a player’s Handicap Index directly, the National Association assumes the responsibilities of a golf club.

(iii) Regional Golf Association • A Regional Golf Association is affiliated to its National Association and comprised of

golf clubs and/or golfers within a defined area. • A Regional Golf Association has specific responsibilities within the World Handicap

System and may be delegated additional obligations by its National Association.

(iv) National Association • An authorized National Association has the exclusive rights to implement and

administer the World Handicap System within its jurisdiction, including the issuance of a Handicap Index.

• A National Association has specific responsibilities within the World Handicap System and may be delegated additional obligations by a Multi-National Association.

• An authorized National Association may delegate some of its responsibilities to a Regional Golf Association or a golf club.

(v) Multi-National Association • Where a Multi-National Association is the Authorized Handicapping Body, the Multi-

National Association has the exclusive rights to implement and administer the World Handicap System within its jurisdiction on behalf of all member National Associations.

• An authorized Multi-National Association may delegate certain rights or responsibilities to a National Association within its jurisdiction to implement and fulfil the obligations of the World Handicap System on behalf of the Multi-National Association.

(vi) The USGA and The R&A • Together, the USGA and The R&A are responsible for writing and interpreting the

Rules of Handicapping and the Course Rating System. • The USGA and The R&A are the joint governing authorities of the World Handicap

System and are responsible for authorizing the use of the World Handicap System.

The full rights and responsibilities of each key stakeholder are outlined in Appendix A.


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1.4 How to Obtain a Handicap Index

1.4a Joining a Golf Club

In order to obtain a Handicap Index that can be administered in accordance with the Rules of Handicapping, a player must be:

• A member of a golf club that is affiliated with an Authorized Association, or • A direct member of an Authorized Association which has assumed the responsibility of a

golf club (see Rule 1.3(ii)).

By returning a score for the purpose of obtaining or maintaining a Handicap Index, the player acknowledges that the use of their scoring record will be available for:

• Peer review purposes (see Rule 4.4), • Issuance of a Handicap Index, and • Administration and research purposes.

Rule 1.4a Interpretations: 1.4a/1 – Whether a Professional Golfer Can Obtain a Handicap Index A professional golfer may obtain a Handicap Index, provided they meet all of the player responsibilities within the Rules of Handicapping.

1.4b Designating a Home Club A player must designate one golf club as their home club, to be responsible for maintaining their Handicap Index.

But all golf clubs that a player is a member of can request the Authorized Association to make an adjustment to a player’s Handicap Index.

Such requests must comply with the Authorized Association’s local procedures.

When a player is a member of more than one golf club, the player must ensure each golf club knows the details of:

• Which other golf clubs they are a member of, and • Which golf club they have designated as their home club.

Rule 1.4b Interpretations: 1.4b/1 - Criteria to be Used When Designating a Home Club

Rule 1.4b requires a player who is a member of more than one golf club to designate one golf club as their home club.


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A player should decide which golf club to designate as their home club based on one or more of the following criteria:

• Proximity to primary residence, • Frequency of play, and/or • The golf club where they submit most of their acceptable scores.

Should a player’s primary residence change on a regular basis such that different golf clubs satisfy the above criteria at different times of the year, the player should consider changing their home club accordingly. Players must not designate a home club for the purpose of obtaining a Handicap Index that could give them an unfair advantage. 1.4b/2 – Player Changes Designation of Home Club

When a player changes the designation of their home club for any reason, they must inform all golf clubs of which they are a member and provide the new home club with their scoring record. 1.4b/3 – Player Who Belongs to Multiple Golf Clubs within Different Jurisdictions Resulting in More Than One Handicap Index

Rule 1.1 states that the purpose of the World Handicap System is, among other things, to give as many golfers as possible the opportunity to obtain and maintain a Handicap Index. Where a player is a member of a golf club located in a different jurisdiction from the location of their home club, the player may be required to hold a separate Handicap Index issued by the Authorized Association responsible for handicapping within the different jurisdiction. While such a requirement is discouraged, in order to ensure the same Handicap Index is issued by both Authorized Associations, it is the player’s responsibility to return all acceptable scores to both their home club and the golf club that is located in the different jurisdiction. Should there ever be a discrepancy between a player’s Handicap Index as issued by different Authorized Associations, the Handicap Index within the jurisdiction where the round is being played should be used. When playing outside of either jurisdiction, the lowest Handicap Index should be used.


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II. Scores for Handicap Purposes (Rules 2-4) Rule 2 – Scores Acceptable for Handicap Purposes

Principle of the Rule: The scores a player submits for handicap purposes are at the core of the calculation of their Handicap Index. Rule 2 covers the conditions a score must satisfy for it to be acceptable for handicap purposes, providing confidence that it will produce reasonable evidence of the player’s ability and, ultimately, a Handicap Index that is reflective of demonstrated ability.

2.1 Acceptability of Scores A score is acceptable for handicap purposes if the round has been played: • In an authorized format of play (See Rule 2.1a) over at least the minimum number of

holes required for either a 9-hole or an 18-hole score to be acceptable (see Rule 2.2), • In the company of at least one other person, who may also act as a marker (subject to

satisfying any other requirements of the Rules of Golf), • By the Rules of Golf (see Rule 2.1b), • On a golf course with a current Course Rating and Slope Rating, where length and

normal playing difficulty is maintained at a constant level (see Appendix G), • On a golf course during its active season.

In addition, the player’s score must always be certified in accordance with the Rules of Handicapping (see Rule 4.4). If one or more of the requirements set out above is not met, the score is not acceptable for handicap purposes.

Rule 2.1 Interpretations: 2.1/1 - Score is Acceptable for Handicap Purposes Even If Holes Have Not Been Played in the Order Set by the Committee

Rule 5.1 of the Rules of Golf requires holes in a round to be played in the order set by either the Committee in charge of the competition or the Committee in charge of the golf course. However, a score is acceptable for handicap purposes even if the holes in a round have not been played in the order set by the Committee.

For example:

• When the golf course is busy and starting at an alternative hole will allow a quicker pace of play.

• When playing holes in a different order will allow more players to complete their rounds, particularly during periods where daylight is limited.


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2.1/2 - Status of Scores Made When Match Play and Stroke Play Formats are Played Concurrently

When a player competes in a match while also playing a stroke play round and both are authorized formats of play, the stroke play score is the score that should be submitted for handicap purposes. The match play score should not be submitted.

2.1/3 - Returning Scores for Handicap Purposes While Playing on Temporary Greens or Tees

The Authorized Association should determine whether scores made under temporary course conditions are acceptable for handicap purposes. The Authorized Association should also determine whether a temporary modification to the Course Rating and Slope Rating is required to reflect the temporary changes (see Appendix G).


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2.1a Played in an Authorized Format of Play

Authorized formats of play are:

Format of Play Type of Round Number of Holes Individual stroke play Organized competition 9 18 General play 9 18 Stableford – organized competition 9 18 Stableford – general play 9 18 Par/Bogey – organized competition 9 18 Par/Bogey – general play 9 18 Maximum Score – organized competition 9 18 Maximum Score – general play 9 18 Four-Ball stroke play Organized competition 9 18 General play 9 18 Stableford – organized competition 9 18 Stableford – general play 9 18 Par/Bogey – organized competition 9 18 Par/Bogey – general play 9 18 Maximum Score – organized competition 9 18 Maximum Score – general play 9 18 Individual match play Organized competition 9 18 General play 9 18 Four-Ball match play Organized competition 9 18 General play 9 18

(i) Round Played Within a Player’s Jurisdiction. Subject to other provisions set out within

the Rules of Handicapping, an acceptable score from an authorized format of play within a player’s home jurisdiction must be submitted for handicap purposes (see Diagram 2.1a).

(ii) Round Played Outside a Player’s Jurisdiction. Subject to other provisions set out within

the Rules of Handicapping: • A score from an authorized format of play within the jurisdiction where the round

was played is acceptable for handicap purposes and must be submitted, even if the format of play is not authorized in a player’s home jurisdiction.

• A score from a format of play that is unauthorized within the jurisdiction where the round was played, but is an authorized format of play within the player’s home jurisdiction, is acceptable for handicap purposes and must be submitted.


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• A score from a format of play that is unauthorized within both the jurisdiction where the round was played and within the player’s home jurisdiction is not acceptable for handicap purposes and must not be posted to the player’s scoring record.

(See Diagram 2.1a.)

Rule 2.1a Interpretations: 2.1a/1 – Scores Not Acceptable for Handicap Purposes Some formats of play and scores played under certain restricted Terms of the Competition are not acceptable for handicap purposes and must not be posted to a player’s scoring record. The following illustrative list is not exhaustive and if a player is in doubt as to the acceptability of a score, it is recommended that they check with the golf club where they are playing or the Authorized Association.


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[Staff Note: Illustration still work in progress; removal of text “by another player”.]

2.1b Played by The Rules of Golf A round must be played by the Rules of Golf to be acceptable for handicap purposes, subject to the following: (i) Organized Competitions. In a situation where a player is disqualified from a competition

for a breach of the Rules of Golf but no significant scoring advantage has been gained, the score should remain acceptable for handicap purposes.

If a player is disqualified from a competition for any other breach of the Rules of Golf, the score is not acceptable for handicap purposes.

The final determination is at the discretion of the Committee, based on the circumstances.


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(ii) General Play. When an organized competition is not being contested, a score is not acceptable for handicap purposes if the player: • Breaches the Rules of Golf and the correct penalty is not applied under the Rules of

Golf, or • Deliberately ignores a Rule of Golf.

Where a player follows the provisions set down in a Model Local Rule, even when the Committee in charge of the course has not adopted that Model Local Rule, the score may still be acceptable for handicap purposes. The same situation applies where a player is in breach of a Model Local Rule that has been adopted by the Committee.

Examples of situations relating to Model Local Rules where a score might be acceptable for handicap purposes include:

• A player has proceeded under the alternative option to the stroke and distance relief procedure, despite this Model Local Rule not being in effect, or

• The player has used a distance-measuring device despite the Model Local Rule prohibiting their use being in effect.

The final determination is at the discretion of the Committee, based on the circumstances.

Rule 2.1b Interpretations: 2.1b/1 – Examples of When Player Has Been Disqualified From a Competition, But Gained No Significant Scoring Advantage The Committee has the discretion to accept a score for handicap purposes if a player is disqualified from a competition, but no significant scoring advantage has been gained. Examples of situations where a Committee might consider that no significant scoring advantage has been gained include:

Rule of Golf Nature of Disqualification Recommended Action for Handicap Purposes

3.3b(1)/(2) Scorecard not signed Accept score 3.3b(2) Scorecard not returned

promptly Accept score

3.3b(3) Hole score entered on scorecard is lower than actual score

Accept adjusted score

3.3b(4) Handicap on scorecard is missing or too high

Add or adjust handicap and accept score

2.1b/2 – Examples of When Player Has Been Disqualified From a Competition for an Action That Would Have Provided a Significant Scoring Advantage

Examples of situations where a Committee may determine that a player has gained a significant scoring advantage include:


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Rule of Golf

Nature of Disqualification Recommended Action for Handicap Purposes

1.3b Players deliberately agree to ignore a Rule or penalty they know applies

Score not acceptable

4.1a Making a stroke with a non-conforming club


4.3a(1) Using a distance-measuring device that measures elevation changes


2.1b/3 – Hole Not Played By The Rules of Golf in General Play

Where a player has breached the Rules of Golf in general play and knowingly failed to apply the correct penalty, the score should not be acceptable for handicap purposes. However, in some circumstances, individual hole score(s) may be adjusted to a net double bogey to produce an acceptable score. If the Handicap Committee determines that the player is using the net double bogey adjustment to gain an unfair scoring advantage, the Handicap Committee must take action under Rule 7.


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2.2 Minimum Number of Holes Played for Score to be Acceptable

2.2a For an 18-hole Score

For an 18-hole score to be acceptable for handicap purposes, a minimum of 14 holes must be played. If a player plays more than 9 holes but fewer than 14 holes, all surplus hole scores are disregarded and a 9-hole acceptable score must be submitted.

Notes:

1. An acceptable 9-hole score must be played over 9 holes with a current Course Rating and Slope Rating (see Rule 2.1).

2. When a score is scaled back to a 9-hole acceptable score, it must be combined with another acceptable 9-hole score to create an 18-hole score (see Rule 5.1b).

2.2b For a 9-hole Score

For a 9-hole score to be acceptable for handicap purposes, a minimum of 7 holes must be played. If a player has not recorded a score on at least the minimum number of holes required for a 9-hole score, the score is not acceptable for handicap purposes.

If a player records a score on more than 9 holes but fewer than the minimum number of holes required for an 18-hole score to be acceptable, all surplus hole scores are disregarded and a 9-hole acceptable score must be submitted.

A hole is considered to have been played if it has been started.

Notes:

1. An acceptable 9-hole score must be played over 9-holes with a current Course Rating and Slope Rating (see Rule 2.1).

2. When a score is scaled back to a 9-hole acceptable score, it must be combined with another acceptable 9-hole score to create an 18-hole score (see Rule 5.1b).


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Rule 3 – Adjustment of Hole Scores

Principle of the Rule: A score for handicap purposes should not be overly influenced by one or two bad hole scores that are not reflective of a player’s demonstrated ability. In addition, incomplete scores and/or scores where a player did not hole out on every hole can provide reasonable evidence of the player’s ability and can be used for handicap purposes. Rule 3 covers the circumstances where scores may be acceptable and how these hole scores should be adjusted.

3.1 Maximum Hole Score for Handicap Purposes 3.1a Before a Handicap Index Has Been Established For a player submitting their first scores to obtain an initial Handicap Index, the maximum score for each hole played is limited to par + 5 strokes (see Diagram 3.1a).

3.1b After a Handicap Index Has Been Established For a player with an established Handicap Index, the maximum score for each hole played is limited to a net double bogey, calculated as follows:

Par of the hole + 2 strokes + any handicap stroke(s) that the player receives on that hole*

(*or minus any handicap stroke(s) that a plus handicap player gives back on that hole)

(See Diagram 3.1b.)


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• A net double bogey is equal to the lowest score on a hole for which the player would achieve zero Stableford points.

• There is no limit to the number of holes in a round where a net double bogey adjustment may be applied.

• If, in the Terms of the Competition (see Rule 7.2a) or the handicap allowances, there are any restrictions on the number of strokes received, this restricted Playing Handicap should only be used for the purpose of the competition, for example to determine the: » Finishing positions and prize winners, and » Number of strokes given or received for different formats of play.

The player’s full, unrestricted Course Handicap should be used for all applications of net double bogey adjustments. For this procedure the Course Handicap is rounded to the nearest whole number (see Rule 6.1a/b).

• Where a Course Handicap is calculated at more than 54 and a player receives 4 or more strokes on a hole, the maximum hole score is par + 5 for handicap purposes.

• Adjusting a hole score to a net double bogey can be done either: » Automatically, when hole-by-hole score entry is used, or » By the player, when submitting an adjusted gross score for the round.


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3.2 When a Hole is Not Played There are various circumstances that may result in a round not being completed and some holes not being played. For example, due to:

• Fading light or bad weather, • Player injury or illness, • A match finishing before the final hole, or • A hole being declared out of play by the Committee for maintenance or reconstruction

purposes.

A score may only be used for handicap purposes if, among other things, the round has been played over at least the minimum number of holes required for either a 9-hole or an 18-hole score to be acceptable (see Rules 2.1 and 2.2). Where the minimum number of holes has been completed and the reason for a player not playing a hole is valid, the player must use the following table to produce either an 9-hole or 18-hole score:

Number of holes played

Scaling up What score(s) to record for holes not played

At least 7 holes Scale up to 9-hole score Add net par

At least 14 holes Scale up to 18-hole score Add net par

If the reason for a player not playing a hole, or holes, is considered invalid, the Handicap Committee may consider applying a penalty score (see Rule 7.1b).

Notes:

1. The player’s full, unrestricted Course Handicap should be used for all applications of net par. For this procedure, the Course Handicap is rounded to the nearest whole number (see Rule 6.1a/b).

2. Unless otherwise specified by the Committee, when a player with a plus Course Handicap is required to give strokes back to the golf course, this commences at the hole with stroke index 18 and works backwards. Therefore, a player with a +3 Playing Handicap will give strokes back to the golf course at holes with stroke index 18, 17 and 16.

The net par hole score is calculated by subtracting the stroke given back to the course from the par of the hole. For example:


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Par of the Hole -

Stroke Given Back to the Course =

Net Par Hole Score

4 1 3

If the outcome of a competition has been decided before all holes have been completed and the player decides to play any of the remaining holes, the actual scores for those remaining holes must be recorded.

Rule 3.2 Interpretations: 3.2/1 Invalid Reasons For Not Playing a Hole Rule 3.2 describes what score to return for a hole that has not been played for a valid reason in order for an acceptable score to be submitted for handicap purposes. If it is determined that a player has not played a hole or holes for an invalid reason, the score will not be acceptable for handicap purposes. Invalid reasons include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Not playing a particular hole on a golf course because the player knows it usually causes them difficulty and they are likely to return a high hole score.

• Not playing the final holes on a golf course in order to protect a good score or a Handicap Index.

In either case, the Handicap Committee could add a penalty score to the player’s scoring record, if it is determined that the player’s actions were for the purpose of gaining an unfair scoring advantage (see Rule 7.1b). 3.2/2 - Designation of Score for Holes Not Played

The player must add a designation against any score returned which includes holes not played (see Appendix B, Note 5). This is to ensure that all of the procedures set out within the Rules of Handicapping can be carried out properly, for example the calculation of a Score Differential for a 9-hole score (see Rule 5.1b) and the calculation of any adjustment for abnormal playing conditions (see Rule 5.6).

Where hole-by hole scores are required, the player should add a designation against each hole not played.

3.3 When a Hole is Started but Player does not Hole Out

There are various circumstances that might result in a player starting a hole but not holing out. For example, when:

• The result of the hole has already been decided,


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• A hole has been conceded in match play, • A player’s partner has already posted a better score in a Four-Ball format and the

player picks up, or • A player has already reached their net double bogey limit on a specific hole.

When a player starts a hole but does not hole out for a valid reason, subject to other provisions set out within the Rules of Handicapping, the player must record their most likely score or net double bogey, whichever is lower, as appropriate for the situation and depending on the format of play.

The most likely score is:

• The number of strokes already taken to reach a position on a hole, plus • The number of strokes the player would most likely require to complete the hole

from that position, plus • Any penalty strokes incurred during play of the hole.

Most likely scores should be determined on any hole in accordance with the following guidelines:

Position of the Ball Strokes to be Added

If the ball lies on the putting green and is no more than 5 feet (1.5 metres) from the hole: Add one additional stroke.

If the ball lies between 5 feet (1.5 metres) and 20 yards (20 metres) from the hole:

Add 2 or 3 additional strokes, depending on the position of the ball, the difficulty of the green and the ability of the player.

If the ball lies more than 20 yards (20 metres) from the hole:

Add 3 or 4 additional strokes, depending on the position of the ball, the difficulty of the green and the ability of the player.

(See Diagram 3.3.)


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Notes:

1. There is no limit to the number of most likely scores that can be recorded within a player’s adjusted gross score, provided that the failure to hole out is for a valid reason and not for the purpose of gaining an unfair scoring advantage.

2. For players with an established Handicap Index, the most likely score on any hole cannot exceed a net double bogey for handicap purposes.

3. When a player is submitting scores for an initial Handicap Index, the most likely score on any hole cannot exceed par plus 5 strokes.

4. In a Maximum Score format of stroke play, there may be situations where a player has not reached their net double bogey score before reaching the maximum score as determined by the Terms of the Competition. In such cases, the player should record either a most likely score or net double bogey, whichever is the lower score. (See Rules of Golf, Rule 21.2.)


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Rule 3.3 Interpretations:

3.3/1 – Clarification of the Meaning of Most Likely Score for Handicap Posting and When It Should Be Used

A most likely score is used to record a player’s probable score on a hole, when the hole has been started but the player did not hole out their ball. It should be a reasonable assessment of the number of strokes needed to complete the hole.

For example, in a Four-Ball match-play competition, a player’s partner holes their ball from off the putting green for three. The player’s ball lies 15 feet (5 metres) away from the hole in four strokes and the score for the side cannot be improved. To save time, the player may pick up and record a most likely score for handicap purposes.

Based on the most likely score guidelines, the player would record a score of six or seven for handicap purposes (four strokes taken plus two or three additional strokes).

Rule 4 – Submitting a Score

Principle of the Rule: Rule 4 covers the process for the submission of acceptable scores for handicap purposes, both to obtain an initial Handicap Index and to maintain an established Handicap Index. Timely submission of scores by a player, or anyone else responsible or authorized to submit scores on their behalf, allows for responsive updates and provides a real-time measure of the player’s golfing ability. This Rule also outlines the information that players are required to submit for acceptable scores and how these scores can be validated, for example by a marker’s physical signature, by electronic certification or through peer review.

4.1 Information Required for Scoring Record 4.1a General (i) A score posted into the player’s scoring record must be:

• An acceptable score (see Rule 2.1), and • Recorded in the correct chronological order, even if the score is submitted on a day

later than the date the round was played.

(ii) A score should be posted to the player’s scoring record in the form prescribed by the Authorized Association. This may be in the form of hole-by-hole scores (strongly recommended), an adjusted gross score or Stableford points.


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(iii) Upon submission of a score, a player must ensure that the following information is provided for inclusion in their scoring record: • Date of the round played, • Course Rating and Slope Rating for the set of tees played, and • Where applicable, the par and stroke index of each hole.

This information is generally contained on the scorecard.

(iv) The Handicap Committee should ensure a submitted score is posted to a player’s

scoring record as soon as possible.

(v) A score submitted on a day after the round was played should also include the playing conditions calculation (See Rule 5.6), in addition to the information required under (iii) above.

(See Appendix B for sample scoring records.)

Rule 4.1a Interpretations: 4.1a/1 When Par on Scorecard Differs From Par Recorded in Golf Club Terminal or Other Device Used For Submitting Scores.

The Authorized Association or, at the discretion of the National Association the golf club, is responsible for adjudicating par. Therefore, in situations where a player is required to submit adjusted hole scores for handicap purposes and the correct par values for the golf course played are unclear, the player should confirm the correct par values before submitting hole scores for handicap purposes.

4.1b For Scores Prior to Establishing a Handicap Index

Scores submitted by a player to obtain an initial Handicap Index must be submitted as either:

• Hole-by-hole scores (strongly recommended), or

• 9-hole or 18-hole adjusted gross scores. For full details of a player’s scoring record, refer to Appendix B.

4.2 Eligibility to Submit a Score An acceptable score must be submitted by the player, the Handicap Committee, the Committee in charge of the competition or by anyone else authorized by the player.


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4.3 Time Frame for Submitting a Score A player should submit their score as soon as possible on the day of play, after completion of their round, and before midnight (local time).

If a player does not submit their score on the day of play: • Their Handicap Index will not be updated in time for the next day (see Rule 5.4), and • Their score will not be included in the daily playing conditions calculation (PCC) (see

Rule 5.6).

When a score is posted to the player’s scoring record after the day of play and the PCC for the day the round was played has already been performed, the PCC adjustment should still be applied to the player’s Score Differential calculation even though the player’s score was not included in the PCC.

If a score is submitted out of sequence: • The score should be added to the player’s scoring record in the correct chronological

order. • The published PCC adjustment for the golf course played, on the day the round was

played, should be applied to the Score Differential calculation. • The player’s Handicap Index should be recalculated.

Note: The Handicap Committee should investigate any repeated occurrence of a player failing to submit a score in a timely manner (see Rule 7.1b). If there is no evidence that the player has acted for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage, all scores submitted in the intervening period should stand for handicap purposes.

4.4 Certification of a Score

A score submitted for handicap purposes must be made available for peer review as soon as possible after completion of the round. To facilitate the process of peer review:

(i) A player, or someone authorized by the player, must submit their score as soon as possible after completion of the round, and

(ii) The Handicap Committee should ensure a submitted score is posted to the player’s scoring record as soon as possible.

Rule 4.4 Interpretations: 4.4/1 Clarification of Meaning of Peer Review as a Method of Certification of Scores.

Peer review is normally conducted by someone: • Playing in the same group or who was present during the round, and/or


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• Who is a member of the same golf club as the player. In all cases, it must be someone who:

• Has formed a reasonable basis from which to provide support for a score that has been posted or challenge the player on any anomalies in the posted score, or

• Has knowledge of the player’s demonstrated ability and can reasonably verify or challenge the Handicap Index issued to the player.

Challenges or disputes should be raised with the player and/or reported to the Handicap Committee for consideration. To facilitate to process of peer review, player scoring records must be accessible to all other members of the golf club (see Appendix B).

4.5 Number of Scores Required for Initial Handicap Index To obtain an initial Handicap Index, a player must submit acceptable scores from a minimum of 54 holes.


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III. Handicap Calculation and Updating a Handicap Index (Rules 5-6)

Rule 5 – Handicap Index Calculation

Principle of the Rule:

A player’s Handicap Index should represent their demonstrated ability and, where appropriate, be responsive to scores that are inconsistent with their demonstrated ability.

Rule 5 covers the process of calculating a Handicap Index and incorporates the safeguards needed to help ensure that a player’s Handicap Index remains reflective of their ability and that equity is retained for all golfers. It includes mechanisms that:

• Take into consideration the conditions in which a round was played. • Remember previously demonstrated ability within a defined period of time. • Cap the upward movement of a player’s Handicap Index within a defined period of

time. • Apply additional adjustments to a player’s Handicap Index when an exceptional

score is submitted.

5.1 Calculation of a Score Differential

5.1a For an 18-hole Score

An 18-hole Score Differential is calculated as follows:

Score Differential = (113 ÷ Slope Rating) x (adjusted gross score – Course Rating – PCC adjustment)

Note: The PCC adjustment ranges from -1.0 to +3.0 (see Rule 5.6).

5.1b For a 9-hole Score

If a player submits a 9-hole score, an 18-hole Score Differential must be created by combining two 9-hole Score Differentials.

A 9-hole Score Differential is calculated as follows using 50% of the playing conditions calculation (PCC) adjustment for the day:

Score Differential = (113 ÷ 9-hole Slope Rating) x (9-hole adjusted gross score – 9-hole Course Rating – (0.5 x PCC adjustment))


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Notes:

1. An 18-hole PCC adjustment ranges from -1.0 to +3.0 (see Rule 5.6). 2. For the calculation of a 9-hole Course Handicap, see Rule 6.1b.

5.1c Rounding of Minus Score Differentials When an adjusted gross score calculates lower than the Course Rating, this results in the Score Differential being a negative number. Where this occurs, rounding is made upward towards 0. For example:

When a Score Differential is calculated as –1.54, it is rounded to –1.5 When a Score Differential is calculated as –1.55, it is rounded to –1.5 When a Score Differential is calculated as –1.56, it is rounded to –1.6

5.2 Calculation of a Handicap Index

5.2a For Fewer Than 20 Scores A Handicap Index is calculated from the lowest Score Differentials in the scoring record. If a scoring record contains fewer than 20 Score Differentials, the table below is used to determine the number of Score Differentials to be included in the calculation and any adjustment that may apply. Round the result of the calculation to the nearest tenth.

Number of Score Differentials in scoring

record

Score Differential(s) to be used in calculation of Handicap Index

Adjustment

3 Lowest 1 –2.0 4 Lowest 1 –1.0 5 Lowest 1 0 6 Average of lowest 2 –1.0

7 or 8 Average of lowest 2 0 9 to 11 Average of lowest 3 0

12 to 14 Average of lowest 4 0 15 or 16 Average of lowest 5 0 17 or 18 Average of lowest 6 0

19 Average of lowest 7 0 20 Average of lowest 8 0


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Allocation of an Initial Handicap Index Based on any additional evidence available about a player’s demonstrated ability, a Handicap Committee may modify a player’s initial Handicap Index upward or downward (see Rule 7.1a).

Rule 5.2a Interpretations: 5.2a/1 – Modification of a Player’s Initial Handicap Index Due to Evidence of Previous Ability

A player submits three scores to obtain an initial Handicap Index, which result in calculated Score Differentials of 15.3, 15.2 and 16.6.

This would result in an initial Handicap Index of:

Lowest Score Differential -

Adjustment =

Initial Handicap Index

15.2 2 13.2

The Handicap Committee is aware that the player, who is rejoining a golf club after many years out of the game, had played well as a junior golfer and maintained a Handicap Index of around 8.0.

Based on the evidence available, the Handicap Committee may adjust the player’s calculated initial Handicap Index to better reflect their previously demonstrated ability. 5.2a/2 – Modification of a Player’s Initial Handicap Index When Subsequent Scores Are Significantly Different Than Expected

A player submits three scores to obtain an initial Handicap Index, which result in calculated Score Differentials of 40.7, 42.4 and 36.1.

This would result in an initial Handicap Index of:

Lowest Score Differential -

Adjustment =


36.1 2 34.1

The player then goes on to submit three more scores, which result in calculated Score Differentials of 45.9, 43.6 and 45.0.

After these six scores, the player’s Handicap Index would be:

Average of Lowest two Score

Differentials - Adjustment

=


38.4 1 37.4


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In reviewing the player’s calculated Handicap Index against their scores, the Handicap Committee may conclude in this case that the -1 adjustment should be removed to ensure the calculated Handicap Index better reflects the player’s ability.

5.2b For 20 Scores A Handicap Index is calculated from the lowest Score Differentials in the scoring record. If a scoring record contains at least 20 Score Differentials, the procedure for calculating a Handicap Index is:

• Average the lowest 8 of the most recent 20 Score Differentials (which include any adjustments for exceptional scores and/or a Committee review) and round to the nearest tenth.

• Compute the difference between the average of the lowest 8 Score Differentials and the Low Handicap Index. » If the difference is greater than 3, the soft cap calculation is applied. » If the difference is greater than 5 after application of the soft cap, then the hard cap is

applied. (See Rule 5.8.)

5.2c For Plus Handicap Index When there are 20 Score Differentials in a player’s scoring record and the Handicap Index calculates as a negative figure, this represents a plus Handicap Index.

5.3 Maximum Handicap Index The maximum Handicap Index that can be issued to a player is 54.0. Note: The Committee in charge of a competition may set a maximum limit for entry (see Rule 7.2). 5.4 Frequency of Revision of a Handicap Index Update A player’s Handicap Index should be updated no later than the day after a score was submitted, or as soon as possible thereafter. In a situation when a new round is played before the player’s Handicap Index has been updated, including when multiple rounds are played on the same day, it is recommended that the player uses their existing Handicap Index. However, in certain circumstances, the Committee in charge of the competition (or the Handicap Committee) has the discretion to decide what Playing Handicap the player should use (see Rule 7.2).

Rule 5.4 Interpretations:


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5.4/1 – Example Situation When Committee in Charge of Competition May Adjust a Player’s Playing Handicap

In a situation where a player has performed exceptionally well in an authorized format of play during a morning round and is playing a competition round later the same day, as the player’s Handicap Index will not be updated until the next day, the Committee in charge of the competition may decide to adjust the player’s Playing Handicap. The Committee should consider all of the information available before deciding whether to adjust the player’s Playing Handicap, including what impact the score might have had on the player’s Handicap Index and whether the player would obtain any unfair advantage because their Handicap Index had not been updated. 5.4/2 Golf Club Responsibility to Post Scores As Soon As Possible

Where it is the responsibility of a golf club to post scores at the end of each day, this must be done as soon as possible and preferably before midnight to support the Rules of Handicapping. This is important because it:

• Ensures that a player’s Handicap Index is updated as soon as possible after the round was played (see Rule 5.4).

• Allows for the playing conditions calculation to be carried out (see Rule 5.6). • Ensures that, where appropriate, scores are available for verification by peers. • Enables the Handicap Committee to carry out its other responsibilities (see Rule

7.1b). Failure to carry out this responsibility may compromise the integrity of the Rules of Handicapping.

5.5 Ageing of Scores and Lapsing of a Handicap Index A score continues to be part of the Handicap Index calculation as long as it remains within the player’s most recent 20 scores recorded, regardless of the age of the score. Where applicable, a 9-hole score waiting to be combined with another 9-hole score will be retained until it becomes older than the twentieth oldest 18-hole score in the scoring record, after which it is discarded. A Handicap Index only lapses if a player is no longer a member of at least one golf club.

Note: A player’s scoring record should be retained wherever possible. This will assist a Handicap Committee if the player obtains a Handicap Index again in the future.

5.6 Playing Conditions Calculation


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Principle of the Rule: Course Ratings are based on normal playing conditions, but the difficulty of a golf course can vary substantially from day to day, due to:

• Course conditions, • Weather conditions, and/or • Course set-up. The playing conditions calculation (PCC) determines whether playing conditions on the day differed from normal conditions to the extent that an adjustment is needed to compensate. It is a daily statistical procedure that compares the scores submitted by players on the day against expected scoring patterns.

The purpose of this feature within the handicap calculation is to recognize that an average score submitted in harder playing conditions may be better than a good score submitted in easier playing conditions. Unadjusted, such a score may be omitted from the Handicap Index calculation.

If the PCC determines that acceptable scores submitted are in line with expected scoring patterns no adjustment is made.

The calculated adjustment is dependent upon:

• Whether significantly fewer players than anticipated attained their expected score and, consequently, conditions are determined to be harder than normal.

• Whether significantly more players than anticipated attained their expected score and, consequently, conditions are determined to be easier than normal.

The Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC):

• Is generally performed only once for a day.

• Considers acceptable scores submitted on a golf course each day and requires at least eight acceptable scores to determine if an adjustment is required.

• Includes only acceptable scores submitted by players with a Handicap Index of 36.0 or below.

• Equals zero if fewer than eight acceptable scores are submitted.

• Is applied in the calculation of Score Differentials for all players.

• Where applicable, does not include scores that are scaled up to 9-hole or 18-hole scores.

• Can determine an adjustment of -1.0, 0.0, +1.0, +2.0 and +3.0.

Rule 5.6 Interpretations: 5.6/1 – Procedure for Performing Playing Conditions Calculation

The playing conditions calculation (PCC) will be an automatic calculation and can be summarized as follows:


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1. Calculate the expected score for each eligible player.

2. Calculate the expected standard deviation of Score Differentials at the golf course, incorporating all applicable Slope Ratings.

3. Establish how many players scored better or worse than expected on the day.

4. The proportion of players submitting a score equal to, better than or worse than their expected scoring range determines whether a PCC adjustment is required.

5. If an adjustment is required, determine how much harder or easier the golf course played that day.

6. Based on these calculations, determine any final PCC adjustment required for play on that day.

7. A PCC adjustment is applied as a whole number.

Notes: • For the application of a PCC adjustment in the calculation of a Score Differential, see

Rule 5.1a (for an 18-hole score) and Rule 5.1b (for a 9-hole score). • 9-hole acceptable scores are doubled for inclusion in the PCC along with a doubled 9-

hole Course Rating and the 9-hole Slope Rating. • The PCC is applied to all acceptable scores which are submitted on a day of play and

retrospectively for scores played on that day but submitted at a later date.

5.6/2 - Circumstances When There Might Be More Than One Playing Conditions Calculation on a Single Day

Rule 5.6 recommends that only one playing conditions calculation (PCC) is performed for the day.

However, there may be circumstances that warrant a separate PCC to be performed for part of the day or for a certain competition. For example, when:

• There is extreme variation in weather on the day. • A competition is being played on the day where the make-up of the field is

significantly different from the make-up of the players participating in general play rounds on the same day.

5.6/3 – How to Perform a Separate Playing Conditions Calculation for a Certain Competition and What Adjustment to Apply to General Play Rounds Played on the Same Day

In circumstances when a separate playing conditions calculation (PCC) is performed for a certain competition:

• Only scores from those players who have participated in the competition are considered in the separate PCC.


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• Any calculated adjustment from the separate PCC will only be applied to the calculation of the Score Differentials of players who have participated in the competition.

• For all other players who have played at the same golf course on the day, the PCC for the day is applied which uses all eligible scores for the day (including the scores of players who have participated in the competition).

5.6/4 - Player Plays Multiple Rounds on the Same Course on the Same Day and a Separate Playing Conditions Calculation is Performed

When playing two or more rounds on the same golf course on the same day and a separate PCC is performed for one or more of the rounds, a different PCC adjustment may be applied to each of a player’s calculated Score Differentials.

5.6/5 – Round Played Away and Score Returned to Home Club

When a player returns a score back to their home club after playing a round at an away golf course, the playing conditions calculation (PCC) for that golf course on the day the round was played should be retrieved and used to calculate the player’s Score Differential before their Handicap Index is revised. 5.6/6 – Performing the Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) at a Golf Club With 27 Holes

A Golf Club has three 9-hole golf courses known as the South, East and West courses. The design and layout of the three courses allows golfers to (a) play only 9 holes on any golf course, or (b) 18 holes in any combination of 9 holes (South/South, South/East, South/West, East/East, East/West and West/West).

The playing conditions calculation (PCC) is performed over any 18-hole golf course, which has been issued a Course Rating and Slope Rating.

Provided all of the criteria set out in Rule 5.6 is satisfied, a PCC is performed every day, for each 18-hole combination.

5.6/7 - Application of Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) When Playing only 9 Holes at a Golf Club with 27 Holes

A Golf Club has three 9-hole golf courses known as the South, East and West courses. The design and layout of the three courses allows golfers to (a) play only 9 holes on any golf course, or (b) 18 holes in any combination of 9 holes (South/South, South/East, South/West, East/East, East/West and West/West).

For a player who plays only 9 holes on the South golf course:

• Their score will be entered into the PCC for each of the South/South, South/East and South/West 18-hole combinations.

• Their score will be doubled, using the same 9-hole Course Rating and Slope Rating as the 9 holes played.


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• Provided all of the criteria set out in Rule 5.6 is satisfied, a PCC will be performed for each 18-hole combination.

• 50% of the PCC adjustment for the South/South golf course is applied to the calculation of the player’s Score Differential.

• If no PCC is performed for the South/South golf course, no PCC adjustment will be applied to the calculation of the player’s Score Differential. This is even if a PCC adjustment is performed for other 18-hole combinations involving the South golf course.

5.7 Low Handicap Index The Low Handicap Index represents the demonstrated ability of a player over the 12-month period preceding the most recent score in their scoring record and provides a reference point against which the current Handicap Index can be compared.

• A Low Handicap Index is established once a player has at least 20 acceptable scores in their scoring record.

• Once a player has established a Low Handicap Index, it is re-evaluated every time a new acceptable score is submitted and must be displayed in the player’s scoring record.

• A newly determined Low Handicap Index is considered in the processing of the player’s next acceptable score whenever the next round is submitted. A player’s Low Handicap Index may become more than 12 months old in the period between two rounds being played.

• Where a Handicap Committee-applied adjustment reduces a player’s Handicap Index, the adjusted Handicap Index resets the Low Handicap Index to the adjusted Handicap Index, unless a lower Handicap Index is still eligible (see Rule 7.1a).

• Where a Handicap Committee-applied adjustment increases a player’s Handicap Index, the Committee should consider resetting the player’s Low Handicap Index to the same value as the adjusted Handicap Index.

5.8 Limit on Upward Movement of a Handicap Index

There are two trigger points within the cap procedure:

(i) The soft cap. The soft cap is triggered when the difference between a player’s newly calculated Handicap Index and their Low Handicap Index is greater than 3.0 strokes.

When a calculated Handicap Index increase is greater than 3.0 strokes, the value above 3.0 strokes is restricted to 50% of the increase.

(ii) The hard cap. The hard cap triggers to restrict the amount by which a player’s Handicap

Index can increase, after application of the soft cap, to no more than 5.0 strokes above their Low Handicap Index.

There is no limit on the amount by which a player’s Handicap Index can decrease.

The soft cap and hard cap procedures start to take effect only once a player has at least 20 acceptable scores in their scoring record.


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(See Diagram 5.8.)

5.9 Submission of an Exceptional Score When an exceptional score is posted to a player’s scoring record, the Handicap Index will be reduced in accordance with the following adjustment table:

• A reduction can be applied based on a single exceptional score. • Reductions for multiple exceptional scores are applied cumulatively.

• A reduction is automatically applied to a Handicap Index after it is updated following the submission of an exceptional score.

• To ensure that the impact of the adjustment remains after the next score is submitted, the reduction is also applied to the previous 19 Score Differentials recorded in the player’s scoring record. The impact of the adjustment will become gradually diluted as new scores are submitted. Where there are fewer than 20 scores in a player’s scoring record the reduction is applied to all recorded Score Differentials.

Number of strokes the Score Differential is lower than a player’s Handicap Index in

effect when the round was played Exceptional score reduction

7.0 – 9.9 -1.0

10.0 or more -2.0


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• Additional handicap review notifications will be generated for the Handicap Committee’s consideration, when:

• Multiple exceptional score reductions are applied to a player’s Handicap Index. • A Score Differential is 10.0 strokes or more below a player’s Handicap Index in effect

when that round was played and an exceptional score reduction of –-2.0 is triggered. • The Handicap Committee is permitted to override any adjustment for an exceptional score if

it considers that the adjustment would result in a player’s Handicap Index not being a fair reflection of their demonstrated ability (see Rule 7.1a).

(See Diagram 5.9.)


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Rule 6 – Course Handicap and Playing Handicap Calculation

Principle of the Rule: The Course Handicap calculation converts a Handicap Index to the number of strokes a player requires to play any golf course with a Course Rating and Slope Rating. This allows portability of a player’s Handicap Index wherever they play. The Playing Handicap calculation enables equity amongst players of all handicap levels within different formats of the game. A Playing Handicap is calculated by applying the appropriate handicap allowance to a player’s Course Handicap. For formats of play where a handicap allowance of 100% is adopted, the Playing Handicap will be the same as the Course Handicap. Course Handicap - For handicap purposes, a Course Handicap is used to determine the number of strokes that a player receives (or gives) on any golf course and for the correct application of net par and net double bogey adjustments. Playing Handicap - For equity purposes, the Playing Handicap calculation determines the number of strokes each player gives or receives, to ensure that all players can enjoy a fair and equal game when playing with or competing against one another.

6.1 Course Handicap Calculation

6.1a For an 18-hole Round An 18-hole Course Handicap is calculated as follows:

Course Handicap = Handicap Index × (Slope Rating ÷ 113) + (Course Rating – par)

6.1b For a 9-hole Round

A 9-hole Course Handicap is calculated as follows:

Course Handicap = (Handicap Index ÷ 2) × (9-hole Slope Rating ÷ 113) + (9-hole Course Rating – 9-hole par)

(See Appendix E for guidance on stroke index allocation for 9-hole rounds.)


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Rule 6.1b Interpretations: 6.1b/1 - Use of 9-Hole Course and Slope Ratings in the Calculation of a 9-hole Course Handicap

When an Authorized Association issues Course Ratings and Slope Ratings to golf clubs, the 18-hole ratings should also be presented with front nine and back nine Course Ratings and Slope Ratings. For example:

Men’s White Tees Women’s Red Tees

Course Rating

Slope Rating

Course Rating

Slope Rating

18-Holes 73.1 132 75.5 138

Holes 1-9 36.1 132 37.3 135

Holes 10-18 37.0 131 38.2 141

The calculation of a 9-hole Course Handicap must use the correct Course Rating and Slope Rating for the 9-hole golf course being played.

Note: The calculated 18-hole and 9-hole Course Handicap is rounded to the nearest whole number for the purpose of applying adjustments for maximum hole score (see Rule 3.1) and when a hole is not played (see Rule 3.2), with .5 rounded upwards. Otherwise, the full calculated value is retained and rounding occurs only after the Playing Handicap calculation.

6.2 Playing Handicap Calculation

6.2a Standard Calculation A Playing Handicap is calculated as follows:

Playing Handicap = Course Handicap x handicap allowance The calculated Playing Handicap is rounded to the nearest whole number. A Playing Handicap ending in .5 is rounded upward. For recommended handicap allowances, see Appendix C.


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6.2b Calculation When Multiple Tees with Different Pars Are Used in a Competition

For the purposes of this Rule:

• Stroke play refers to gross score, net score or Maximum Score formats of play. • Stableford and Par/Bogey formats of play are considered separately.

When a competition is played from two or more sets of tees (such as mixed gender or mixed ability events), depending on the format of play and any difference in par between tees, additional strokes may be added to the standard calculation of the Playing Handicap for equity purposes and to determine finishing positions, results and prizes.

(i) Stroke Play and Match Play formats (where results are recorded as gross or net scores). A player competing from a set of tees with a higher par must receive additional strokes for the round, equal to the difference between the par of the tees they are playing and the tees with the lowest par.

These additional strokes are added to the player’s Playing Handicap as follows:

Playing Handicap = (Course Handicap x handicap allowance) + difference in pars

(ii) Stroke Play and Match Play formats (where results are recorded relative to par). As a player’s net (or gross) status versus par for the round is compared directly against that of every other player, no additional strokes are added to the standard calculation of the Playing Handicap when the par is different between tees. (iii) Stableford formats. As a player’s total number of Stableford points for the round is compared directly against that of every other player, no additional strokes are applied to the standard calculation of the Playing Handicap when the par is different between tees. (iv) Par/Bogey formats. As a player’s Par/Bogey result for the round is compared directly against that of every other player, no additional stokes are applied to the standard calculation of the Playing Handicap when the par is different between tees.


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IV. Administration of a Handicap Index (Rule 7)

Rule 7 – Committee Actions

Principle of the Rule: The Handicap Committee plays a vital role in the successful administration of a player’s Handicap Index and is equipped with tools to intervene when the calculated Handicap Index is no longer reflective of the player’s demonstrated ability. Used appropriately, these tools are designed to ensure that players are treated fairly and consistently from golf club to golf club. The Committee in charge of the competition also plays an important role in setting appropriate Terms of the Competition for all participating players.

7.1 Handicap Committee

7.1a Conducting a Handicap Review and Adjusting a Handicap Index (i) Conducting a Handicap Review. The Handicap Committee should conduct a review of a

player’s Handicap Index using the procedures set out in Appendix D. • It is strongly recommended that the Handicap Committee conduct a handicap review

annually. • A handicap review may be conducted at the request of the player or another player at

any time. • Before making any adjustment to a player’s Handicap Index, the Handicap Committee

should carefully consider all available evidence, including: » Whether the player’s scoring potential has been affected by a temporary or

permanent injury or illness which is significant enough to impact the player’s ability to play with or against all other players on a fair and equal basis.

» Any handicap(s) previously held by the player. » Whether the player’s ability is rapidly improving or declining. » Whether the player is performing significantly differently in one format of play

compared to another, for example between organized competitions and general play; unauthorized and authorized format of play.

» Where it has been determined that a player’s actions are for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage.

(ii) Adjusting a Handicap Index. In considering all of the available evidence, the Handicap

Committee must decide the most appropriate course of action for any adjustment to a player’s Handicap Index, which can be either:


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• Resetting the Handicap Index by applying an adjustment to each of the most recent 20 Score Differentials in the scoring record, to achieve the chosen Handicap Index that is determined to better reflect the player’s demonstrated ability.

» This will allow for the Handicap Index to be updated as new scores are posted. » If fewer than 20 scores are recorded on a player’s scoring record the adjustment is

applied to all recorded Score Differentials. » The Handicap Committee can remove the adjustment at any time if the adjustment

is determined to no longer be warranted. Or • Freezing the Handicap Index at a level selected by the Handicap Committee for a defined

period of time.

» During this period, a player’s Handicap Index will not be updated as new scores are posted unless the Handicap Committee has determined to freeze only against upward movement.

» The Handicap Committee can remove the freeze upon the Handicap Index at any time and the scores in the player’s scoring record will be used to calculate the player’s Handicap Index.

Any adjustment to a player’s Handicap Index resulting from a handicap review must:

• Be applied only after the player has been informed and has had an opportunity to respond

to the Handicap Committee or, where appropriate, the Authorized Association. • Be a minimum of 1 stroke, upward or downward. • Only increase a player’s Handicap Index by up to 5.0 strokes above the player’s Low

Handicap Index, unless there are exceptional circumstances. Such circumstances could include a player who has a long-term illness or injury preventing them from playing golf at the level previously attained.

Rule 7.1a Interpretations: 7.1a/1 - Resetting a Player’s Handicap Index by Adjusting the Most Recent 20 Score Differentials

Applying an adjustment to each of the most recent 20 Score Differentials in the player’s scoring record will ensure that the impact of the adjustment remains after the next score is submitted, gradually diluting the impact of the adjustment as more scores are submitted. As an example, a player has a Handicap Index of 10.3 and the Handicap Committee decides to adjust this to 9.3 because recent scores suggest that the player is rapidly improving.


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Using this example, the Handicap Committee would apply a -1 adjustment to each of the most recent 20 Score Differentials and the impact of this adjustment on the final calculation is illustrated in the tables below:

Score Course Rating

Slope Rating

Score Diff.

Score Course Rating

Slope Rating

Score Diff.

Handicap Review

Adj.

Adjusted Score Diff.

83 70.0 131 11.2 83 70.0 131 11.2 -1 10.2 86 71.8 127 12.6 86 71.8 127 12.6 -1 11.6 82 69.0 125 11.8 82 69.0 125 11.8 -1 10.8 79 69.8 128 8.1 79 69.8 128 8.1 -1 7.1 87 70.1 134 14.3 87 70.1 134 14.3 -1 13.3 90 70.0 128 17.7 90 70.0 128 17.7 -1 16.7 89 71.8 131 14.8 89 71.8 131 14.8 -1 13.8 88 71.5 129 14.5 88 71.5 129 14.5 -1 13.5 81 69.4 127 10.3 81 69.4 127 10.3 -1 9.3 92 71.7 130 17.6 92 71.7 130 17.6 -1 16.6 86 71.8 127 12.6 86 71.8 127 12.6 -1 11.6 87 70.1 134 14.3 87 70.1 134 14.3 -1 13.3 79 69.8 128 8.1 79 69.8 128 8.1 -1 7.1 83 70.7 125 11.1 83 70.7 125 11.1 -1 10.1 88 71.5 129 14.5 88 71.5 129 14.5 -1 13.5 92 71.7 130 17.6 92 71.7 130 17.6 -1 16.6 80 69.1 120 10.3 80 69.1 120 10.3 -1 9.3 86 71.8 127 12.6 86 71.8 127 12.6 -1 11.6 82 69.4 127 11.2 82 69.4 127 11.2 -1 10.2 90 70.0 128 17.7 90 70.0 128 17.7 -1 17.7

XX.X = Best 8 XX.X = Best 8

The Handicap Index calculation averages the best 8 of the most recent 20 Score Differentials in the player’s scoring record, as follows:

(11.2 + 11.8 + 8.1 + 10.3 + 8.1 + 11.1 + 10.3 + 11.2) ÷ 8 = Handicap Index 10.3

The Handicap Index calculation now averages the best 8 of the most recent 20 Score Differentials in the player’s scoring record incorporating the Committee applied handicap adjustment of -1 for each Score Differential, as follows:

(10.2 + 10.8 + 7.1 + 9.3 + 7.1 + 10.1 + 9.3 + 10.2) ÷ 8 = Handicap Index 9.3

7.1a/2 – Handicap Committee Applied Adjustment For Injured Player Must Be Based On Scores Made After Injury

The Handicap Committee should only consider adjusting a player’s Handicap Index for injury after one or more acceptable scores have been submitted after the injury occurred. In determining the level of any adjustment, the Handicap Committee should take into consideration the scores submitted after the injury and the nature and severity of the injury.


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After a number of scores have been submitted and it becomes evident that the injury has caused a permanent change to the player’s ability, it may be appropriate to disregard the player’s scoring record and allocate a Handicap Index using only the scores submitted since the injury (see Rule 5.2a).

7.1b Applying a Penalty Score In a situation where a player fails to submit a score from an authorized format of play in a timely manner, the Handicap Committee should investigate the reason and take appropriate action.

(i) If There is a Valid Reason For a Score Not Having Been Submitted. The Handicap Committee

of the player’s home club has the authority to determine whether a player’s reason for not submitting a score is a valid reason. • Valid reasons for not submitting a score can include: » Sudden injury or illness, » Emergency, » Dangerous weather conditions, or » Any other reason for stopping play that is considered valid by the Handicap

Committee.

• When the home club or the Committee considers that a player has a valid reason for not completing a round, there are two options: » Option 1 – The score must be posted. If the player does not complete their round but

has completed the minimum number of holes determined by the Authorized Association for an acceptable 9-hole or 18-hole score, the score should be posted for handicap purposes.

» Option 2 – The score must not be posted. If the player does not complete their round and has not completed the minimum number of holes determined by the Authorized Association for an acceptable 9-hole or 18-hole score, the score must not be posted for handicap purposes.

(ii) If There is No Valid Reason For a Score Not Having Been Submitted. The Committee has

the authority to determine whether a player’s reason for not submitting a score is a valid reason.

• Invalid reasons for not submitting a score can include: » Preventing a low score from causing a Handicap Index to decrease. » Preventing a high score from causing a Handicap Index to increase.

• If the player’s score is identifiable and they stopped their round after having completed at least the minimum number of holes determined by the Authorized Association for an acceptable 9-hole or 18-hole score, the score should be posted for handicap purposes.

• Where a Handicap Committee subsequently becomes aware of the player’s actual score after it has already posted a penalty score, the actual score should also be posted to the


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player’s scoring record. The Handicap Committee has discretion to leave the penalty score on the player’s scoring record or to remove it.

• If the Handicap Committee concludes that a player failed to submit a score for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage, it should consider withdrawing the player’s Handicap Index, and/or applying an appropriate penalty score (high or low depending on intent).

• The Handicap Committee or the Authorized Association should consider disciplinary procedures for players who repeatedly fail to submit their scores or who fail to complete rounds.

(See Diagram 7.1b/1.)


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7.1c Withdrawing a Handicap Index The Handicap Committee, or Authorized Association, should withdraw the Handicap Index of a player who deliberately or repeatedly fails to comply with the player’s responsibilities under the Rules of Handicapping (see Appendix A). • The withdrawal of a player’s Handicap Index should be applied only after the player has

been informed and has had an opportunity to respond to the Handicap Committee, Authorized Association or other disciplinary panel.

• A player must be notified of the length of time their Handicap Index will be withdrawn and any additional conditions.

7.1d Reinstating a Handicap Index

Reinstatement of a player’s Handicap Index will be required after a player’s Handicap Index has been withdrawn for a period of time.

To determine the level of Handicap Index at which the player is to be reinstated, the Handicap Committee may wish to consider:

• Reinstating the Handicap Index at a level that the Handicap Committee feels is currently reflective of the player’s demonstrated ability,

• Allocating a Handicap Index as if the player were new to the sport, or • Reinstating the last recorded Handicap Index.

It is strongly recommended that, after a player’s Handicap Index has been reinstated, the Handicap Committee should monitor the player’s Handicap Index closely over subsequent rounds and, where required, make appropriate adjustments.

7.2 Committee in Charge of a Competition

7.2a Terms of the Competition

The Committee in charge of a competition may set a maximum limit for play within the Terms of the Competition. For example, the Committee can set:

• A maximum Handicap Index for entry or use in the competition.

• A maximum Playing Handicap.


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For the purpose of updating a player’s Handicap Index after a competition where the Committee has set maximum limits, the player’s full, unrestricted Course Handicap should be used for the calculation of their adjusted gross score.

For ease of competition administration purposes, the Committee in charge of a multi-round competition played during the same or consecutive days must determine within the Terms of the Competition whether a player’s Handicap Index will remain unchanged for the duration of the competition. It is strongly recommended that the Handicap Index remains unchanged between such rounds.

7.2b Other Actions

The Committee in charge of a competition may reserve the right to:

• Adjust the Playing Handicap of an entrant within the Terms of the Competition where there is evidence that the player’s Handicap Index does not reflect their demonstrated ability.

• Determine that when course conditions are exceptionally poor, the submission of scores for

handicap purposes should be suspended. The Committee should obtain approval from the appropriate Authorized Association when implementing such a suspension.


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V. Appendices

Appendix A - Rights and Responsibilities The integrity of the World Handicap System relies on all key stakeholders ensuring that the requirements set down within the Rules of Handicapping are satisfied and that they carry out their respective responsibilities. The key stakeholders within the Rules of Handicapping are:

• The player • The golf club and its Handicap Committee • Regional Golf Associations • National Associations Collectively known as Authorized Associations • Multi-National Associations • The USGA and The R&A

The responsibilities of each key stakeholder are: (1) Player Responsibilities. In order to comply with the requirements of the Rules of

Handicapping, a player is expected to:

(i) Act with integrity by following the Rules of Handicapping and to refrain from using, or circumventing, the Rules of Handicapping for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage.

(ii) Have only one Handicap Index from a single scoring record, which is managed by the player’s home club in accordance with the Rules of Handicapping.

Note: This Handicap Index will apply elsewhere, including at all other golf clubs of which the player is a member.

(iii) Ensure each golf club of which they are a member knows the details of: • All other golf clubs that they are a member of, and • Which golf club that they have designated to be their home club.

(iv) Ensure that, prior to playing a round in an authorized format of play, they:

• Know their current Handicap Index,

• Inform the Handicap Committee or the Committee in charge of the competition of any discrepancies with their Handicap Index and provide details of any outstanding scores yet to be submitted or posted to their scoring record,

• Know the holes where handicap strokes are to be given or received, and

• Record their correct handicap on the scorecard in a stroke-play competition.

(v) Attempt to make the best score possible at each hole.


56

(vi) Where applicable, ensure all acceptable scores are submitted for handicap purposes, including scores from outside the player’s home jurisdiction. Acceptable scores should be submitted: • Before midnight on the day of play, and • In the correct chronological order.

(vii) Submit acceptable scores to provide reasonable evidence of their demonstrated ability.

(viii) Provide any new golf club with the full details of their previous playing history, Handicap Index held, memberships and any other information relevant to their golfing ability.

(ix) Play by the Rules of Golf.

(x) Certify the scores of fellow players.


57

(2) Golf Club/Handicap Committee, Regional Associations, National Associations and Multi-National Association Responsibilities. In order to comply with the requirements of the Rules of Handicapping, Handicap Committees and Authorized Associations are expected to:

Authorized Associations: Golf Club/

Handicap Committee

Regional Association

National Association

Multi-National

Association (i) Establish a Handicap Committee and

support structure to ensure the World Handicap System is properly administered and the system’s integrity is protected.

√ √ √ √

(ii) Ensure delegated stakeholders are fulfilling their responsibilities. √ √ √ √

(iii) Establish procedures to follow when a delegated stakeholder is not fulfilling its responsibilities.

√ √ √ √

(iv) Provide education to delegated stakeholders on the World Handicap System and the responsibilities of that stakeholder.

√ √ √ √

(v) Establish procedures to follow for withdrawing a player’s Handicap Index.

√ √ √ √

(vi) Maintain comprehensive, up-to-date player scoring records containing enough history, ideally at least two years, to enable the accurate calculation of a player’s Handicap Index.

√ √ √ √

(vii) Communicate procedures to follow for handicap purposes when playing in an authorized format of play.

√ √ √ √

(viii) Authorize use of the World Handicap System calculations or procedures, including any agreements with third-party vendor providers or computation services.

√ √ √

(ix) Review a player’s Handicap Index at least once a year to ensure it continues to reflect the player’s demonstrated ability.

√ √ √


58


Handicap Committee



Multi-National

Association (x) Adjust or withdraw the Handicap Index

of a player: • Whose Handicap Index no longer

reflects their demonstrated ability. • Who fails to meet their

responsibilities under the Rules of Handicapping.

• Whose actions are determined to be for the purpose of gaining an unfair advantage.

The player must be informed of any adjustments to, or withdrawal of, their Handicap Index and how long such adjustments or withdrawal will apply.

√ √ √

(xi) Settle any dispute or doubtful point referring to the Rules of Handicapping and establish appeal procedures.

√ √ √

(xii) Ensure all relevant scoring and handicapping information is available to other stakeholders, where required or appropriate.

√ √ √

(xiii) Apply and/or communicate the recommended, or stipulated, procedures for establishing par in accordance with the Rules of Handicapping. This will enable consistent application of maximum hole score and scores for holes not played, for handicap purposes.

√ √ √ √

(xiv) Notify the Authorized Association and/or handicapping software or system supplier of any inaccuracies when updating player scoring records.

√ √

(xv) Apply any applicable penalty score to a player’s scoring record and advise the player of any applied adjustment.

√

(xvi) Where specified by an Authorized Association, seek approval for the allotment, reinstatement or adjustment of an elite level player’s Handicap Index.

√

(xvii) Communicate whether a low Handicap Index to be allotted or adjusted requires

√ √


59


Handicap Committee



Multi-National

Association the approval of an Authorized Association and, if so, the point below which such approval would be required.

(xviii) Establish recommended handicap allowances. √ √ √ √

(xix) Determine stroke index allocations. √ √ √

(xx) Calculate/publish and aggregate Playing Conditions Calculations as issued each day. This will allow the Playing Conditions Calculation to be used by players from outside the jurisdiction.

√ √

Notes: 1. Where a National Association administers and manages a player’s Handicap Index directly, the National Association assumes the responsibilities of a golf club. 2. Where appropriate, the delegation of responsibilities is determined by either the Multi-National Association or the National Association.


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World Handicap System Responsibilities Relating to the Golf Course:

Authorized Association Golf Club/Handicap Committee

1. Ensure that all facilities approved by the Authorized Association for handicap purposes have a Course Rating and Slope Rating for all applicable sets of tees, determined in accordance with the Course Rating System.

Ratings must also include all temporary or permanent course modifications advised by affiliated golf clubs/course owners.

2. Should use the Course Rating software application to calculate and issue all Course Ratings and Slope Ratings.

3. Maintain records of all Course Ratings undertaken within its jurisdiction.

4. Establish a Course Rating Review Committee.

5. Establish access to fully trained course raters (including team leaders) to conduct all required Course Ratings and re-ratings.

6. Determine the eligible period when preferred lies may be in operation for acceptable scores to be posted.

7. Establish the start and end dates of any inactive season within relevant areas of its jurisdiction.

1. Have a verifiable course measurement for each set of tees with a Course Rating over which authorized formats are to be played.

2. Inform the Authorized Association of any significant course alterations, particularly length changes and introduction of penalty areas, that could affect issued Course Ratings and Slope Ratings.

3. Ensure that all acceptable scores are played from tees that have a Course Rating and Slope Rating, as defined within the Course Rating System.

4. Must maintain their golf course(s) in a manner consistent with the conditions presented when the Course Rating(s) were conducted.

5. Display a Course Handicap and Playing Handicap adjustment table for each set of tees, for players’ reference.

6. Ensure that the posting of all acceptable scores is suspended in the event that course conditions are exceptionally poor.

Prior to implementing, the golf club must first obtain approval from the appropriate Authorized Association.

7. Ensure the golf course is marked in accordance with the Rules of Golf.


61

Appendix B - Player’s Scoring Record Three sample scoring records are presented to demonstrate the information that should be contained within different versions.

(i) General Version. Accessible by the Handicap Committee and all players within a golf club in countries where peer review is required for the certification of scores. This record will display basic details of the 20 most recent scores, as well as the 5 scores most recently replaced within the 20-score set.

Player’s Name:

Player’s Identification No.:

Home Club:

Low Handicap Index: xx.x

Current Handicap Index:

Effective Date: dd/mm/yy

Date Played (dd/mm/yy)

Course Name Course Rating

Slope Rating

Adjusted Gross Score

Score Differential

Adjustment

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25


62

(ii) Condensed Version. Accessible by the Handicap Committee and players in countries where peer review is required for the certification of scores. This record is the same as the General Version but, given its wider availability, it omits reference to the day the round was played and the golf course played for data privacy reasons.

Player’s Name:

Player’s Identification No.:

Home Club:

Low Handicap Index: xx.x

Current Handicap Index:

Effective Date: mm/yy

Date Played

(mm/yy) Course Rating Slope Rating Adjusted Gross Score Score Differential

Adjustment

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25


63

(iii) Full Version. For reference by the player to whom the record belongs, the Handicap Committee and those involved in dispute resolution, and to be used to support all aspects of the World Handicap System. The scoring record will contain full details of the most recent 20 scores, as well as the 5 scores most recently replaced within the 20-score set. It will also provide an option to link to the player’s full, backdated scoring record history. KEY:

Information about the score that must be entered by the player/official

Automated entries from data extracted from the handicap computation system/software

Optional information that may be required by the National Association, to be entered by the player/official

Player Name/Identification No: Home Club: Auto Low Handicap Index: Current Handicap Index: Auto

Must Enter Auto

Search function

Optional Auto Must Enter

Optional Auto Auto Must Enter

Optional Optional Drop down menu

Must Enter

Auto***

Auto Auto**** Auto Auto Auto Auto

Date Played (mm/yy)*

or… (dd/mm/yy)*

Date Round played

Select Course Name

Competition Name

State/ Country

Tees Played/Par

Approx. Starting

Time

Course Rating

Slope Rating

9/18 holes

No. Holes

Played/ Starting

Hole

Name of Marker

Select Format/

Score Type**

Gross Score (or

Adj. Gross Score)

Adj. Gross Score (NDB)

Course Handicap

Stableford Points

Par/Bogey Result

Playing Conditions Calculation

(PCC)

Score Diff.

End of Process

Adjustments e.g.

Exceptional scores,

Handicap Review

Revised HI

(inc. adj.)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

* Date field flexible so that Authorized Associations can choose the required format that complies with local data protection/privacy law requirements within their jurisdiction. ** See Note 5, below; *** See Note 6, below; **** See Note 9, below


64

Notes:

Many data fields may be automated by the handicap computation service. 1. The home club (recognized for handicap management purposes) can be automatically

populated from the player’s identification number or name. 2. The current Handicap Index can be automatically populated from the last calculated

Handicap Index. 3. Date Submitted – can default to the current day the score is being submitted and

posted into the scoring record, with a choice to change where appropriate. 4. The course database (held either locally or centrally) may provide automatic entries for:

State/Country; Course Rating; Slope Rating; par and Course Rating minus par calculations.

5. **If required, score type designation(s) should be determined by the Authorized Association and can be used to help identify the format of play, where a round was played and other details about the round. This is primarily to assist with the Handicap Committee review process but can also ensure that the Rules of Handicapping are applied correctly. Examples of how scores might be designated include: Type of Play: Competition; General Play; 9-hole round (N) Format of Play: Stroke play; Match play Where round was played: Home; Away Other details: Incomplete round; Exceptional Score; Penalty Score

6. ***Where hole-by-hole score entry is in use, applicable adjustments to the gross score can be automatically applied. If hole-by-hole scoring is not in use, the gross score adjusted for when a hole is started but a player does not hole out or when a hole is not played will need to be calculated and recorded manually.

7. The Course Handicap can be automatically calculated using the player’s Handicap Index, the Course Rating, the Slope Rating and the par of the tees played.

8. Adjusted Gross Score(s) can be calculated automatically. 9. ****Stableford Points and Par/Bogey results can be calculated automatically where

hole-by-hole score entry is in use; otherwise they will need to be manually entered as total points/result.

10. Any selected end-of-process adjustments, such as exceptional scores and/or adjustments applied by the Handicap Committee, can be automatically applied to calculate the final adjusted Handicap Index.

Where fields cannot be populated automatically, they need to be populated manually when entering scores into the system.


65

Appendix C - Handicap Allowances Handicap allowances are designed to provide equity for players of all levels of ability in each format of play, over both 9 holes and 18 holes.

Handicap allowances are applied to the Course Handicap as the final step in calculating a player’s Playing Handicap (see Rules 6.1 and 6.2).

The National Association is responsible for establishing handicap allowances or it can delegate this responsibility to a Regional Golf Association or golf club. The following table sets out the recommended handicap allowances:

Format of Play Type of Round Recommended Handicap Allowance

Stroke play Individual 95% Individual Stableford 95% Individual Par/Bogey 95% Individual Maximum Score 95% Four-ball 85% Four-ball Stableford 85% Four-ball Par/Bogey 90% Match play Individual 100% Four-ball 95% Other Foursomes 50% of combined team handicap Greensomes 60% low handicap + 40% high

handicap Pinehurst/Chapman 60% low handicap + 40% high

handicap Best 1 of 4 stroke play 75% Best 2 of 4 stroke play 85% Best 3 of 4 stroke play 100% All 4 of 4 stroke play 100%

Scramble (4 players) 25%/20%/15%/10%

from lowest to highest handicap Scramble (2 players) 35% low/15% high Total score of 2 match play 100% Best 1 of 4 Par/Bogey 75% Best 2 of 4 Par/Bogey 80% Best 3 of 4 Par/Bogey 90% 4 of 4 Par/Bogey 100%

Note: The above recommendations are based on medium-sized field net events and may be adjusted based on field size and the desired equity (see Interpretation C/1).


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Handicap Competitions: For organized competitions, the Committee should specify the handicap allowance within the Terms of the Competition.

In general, after handicap allowances have been applied in stroke play formats, a player receives their full Playing Handicap,

In general, after handicap allowances have been applied in match play formats, the player with the lowest Playing Handicap plays off zero strokes relative to the other player(s). The other player(s) receive(s) the difference between their own Playing Handicap and that of the player with the lowest Playing Handicap.

Plus Playing Handicaps:

Unless otherwise specified by the Committee, players with a ‘plus’ Playing Handicap give strokes back to the course, beginning at the hole with stroke index 18. For example, a player with a Playing Handicap of +2 would give strokes back to the course at the holes with stroke index 18 and 17.

When handicap allowances are applied, a player with a plus Playing Handicap moves up towards zero, including rounding. This is to maintain the same relative difference between Playing Handicaps.

Extra Holes: Handicap allowances are designed to create equity over 9 or 18 holes. The Terms of the Competition should specify where handicap strokes should be applied if extra holes are required to determine the winner or other finishing positions (see Official Guide to the Rules of Golf, Committee Procedures, Section 7A).

APPENDIX C Interpretations: C/1 – Impact of Field Size on Recommended Handicap Allowance

Field sizes have an impact on equity and should be considered when determining handicap allowances for a specific event and format of play. The recommended handicap allowance for all individual stroke play formats of play is set at 95% for medium size field net events, of at least 30 players. For a field size of fewer than 30 players, the recommendation would be to increase the handicap allowance to 100%. C/2 Examples of How to Allocate Strokes in Handicap Competitions When Handicap Allowances Apply


67

Player Singles match play

Playing Handicap 100% Handicap Allowance

Four-ball match play Playing Handicap

95% handicap allowance A 10 10 B 18 17 C 27 26 D 39 37

Example 1: In singles match play between player A and player B, player A plays off zero (0) strokes and player B receives 8 strokes in the match. Example 2: In four-ball match play, Player A would play off zero (0) strokes, player B would receive 7 strokes. Player C would receive 16 and Player D would receive 27. Note: The strokes received in four-ball match play remain the same even if the lowest handicap player is unable to play.

C/3 – Examples of How to Allocate Strokes in Handicap Competitions Involving Plus Handicap Players and When Handicap Allowances Apply

The following illustration indicates how a 90% handicap allowance is applied to two golfers with Course Handicaps of +5 and 15:

The 90% handicap allowance is applied to the full difference between Course Handicaps, which maintains relative equity in competitions between all participating players. Examples:


68

Player Course Handicap

Four-Ball Stroke Play Playing Handicap 90% Handicap Allowance

Four-Ball Match Play Playing Handicap 95% Handicap Allowance

A +5 +4 +5 B 7 6 7 C 12 11 11 D 26 23 25

1: In Four-Ball stroke play, player A gives 4 strokes back to the course, player B receives 6 strokes, player C receives 11 strokes and player D receives 23 strokes. 2: In Four-Ball match play, player A plays off zero (0) strokes, player B receives 12 strokes, player C receives 16 strokes and player D receives 30 strokes.


69

Appendix D - Handicap Review The handicap review process gives a Handicap Committee the ability to ensure the Handicap Index of a player reflects their demonstrated ability. It is strongly recommended that a Handicap Committee conduct a handicap review at least annually for all members who have designated that golf club as their home club. • The World Handicap System software specifications will recommend reports and

notifications to assist Handicap Committees to identify those players who require a handicap review. A review can be conducted annually or as otherwise necessary.

• A player must be made aware of, and be given the opportunity to contribute towards, the handicap review process to the extent practicable and must have recourse to an appeals procedure, if requested.

The handicap review can be initiated by:

• The Authorized Association’s requirement for affiliated golf clubs within their jurisdiction to conduct an annual handicap review for all players who hold a Handicap Index.

• The Handicap Committee wishing to review the handicap of a player who is consistently returning scores that do not reflect their demonstrated ability.

• The player requesting a handicap review following a period where they feel their scoring returns do not align with their current Handicap Index.

When conducting a handicap review, the Handicap Committee might consider:

• The player’s scoring record history. • The trend of the player’s Handicap Index, such as differences in a player’s Handicap Index

over the past 12–24 months. • Deviations from the expected scoring performance for the player. • Frequency of score submissions in the past 12 months versus previous 12-month cycles. • Comparison of average Score Differentials between competitive and casual rounds. • Comparison of average Score Differentials in match play versus stroke play formats of

play. • Comparison of average Score Differentials in individual versus team formats of play. • Any scores from, or performances known, in non-authorized formats of play. • Any other knowledge that the Handicap Committee has relative to the player’s golfing

ability. For example, improving play following golf lessons, declining scoring potential due to frequency of playing, ageing, incapacitating injuries or illness, etc.

• Percentage of acceptable scores submitted at a player’s home club. • Percentage of acceptable scores submitted from casual round formats. • Percentage of acceptable scores from 9-hole rounds. • Identifying relevant handicapping trends for Handicap Committee consideration. • Length of time since a player last played to their Handicap Index. • Number of scores since a player last played to their Handicap Index. • Information supplied by any other golf club where the player is a member.


70

Appendix E - Stroke Index Allocation The Rules of Golf state: “The Committee is responsible for publishing on the scorecard or somewhere else that is visible (for example, near the first tee) the order of holes at which handicap strokes are to be given or received.” (See Rules of Golf, Committee Procedures, Rule 5I (4)).

It is recommended that a stroke index allocation be applied over 18-holes, split into six triads with each hole ranked on its playing difficulty relative to par. The difficulty of each hole can be determined objectively using hole-by-hole data provided from the Course Rating procedure as follows:

Scratch Value + Bogey Value – (2 x par)

For example, on a par 4 hole where the Scratch Value is 4.2 and the Bogey Value is 5.3:

4.2 + 5.3 – (2 x 4) = 1.5 over par

The recommended methodology and procedures for determining a stroke index allocation within the six-triad structure, designed to accommodate both stroke play and match play formats, is as follows: • Apply odd stroke index allocations over the front nine and even stroke index allocations

over the back nine. If, however, the back nine is significantly more difficult than the front nine, as determined by the Course Rating, the even stroke index allocations can be switched to the front nine and the odd stroke index allocations to the back nine.

• Spread stroke index allocations evenly over the 18 holes so that players receiving strokes will have the opportunity to use a high proportion of these strokes before a match result has been decided.

• Apply the lowest stroke index hole (1 or 2) on each nine in the middle triad. If no hole within the middle triad is ranked within the lowest 6 holes relative to par, then it can be moved into an adjacent hole at the end of the first triad or the beginning of the third triad on each nine.

• Apply the second lowest stroke index hole (3 or 4) on each nine in either the first or third triad, unless the lowest stroke index hole has been allocated in that same triad.

• If possible, avoid low stroke indexes (6 or less) on consecutive holes. • Repeat the above procedure for the stroke index allocation of strokes 19-36 and 37-54.

These recommended procedures support the guidance contained in the Rules of Golf, Committee Procedures, Rule 5I (4).


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Stroke Index Allocation for 9-Hole Play

The strokes received in a 9-hole format of play on an 18-hole golf course should be taken in ascending order from the published stroke index allocation for 18 holes. Alternatively, the Handicap Committee may consider amending the stroke index allocation from 1 to 9, relative to the ascending order of the published stroke index allocation for 18 holes.

For plus handicap players, where they are required to give strokes back to the course, this commences on the hole with the highest published stroke index allocated for the 9 holes or, if the Handicap Committee has amended the stroke index allocation from 1 to 9, at the hole with stroke index 9.

Sample Stroke Index Allocations

Example 18-hole stroke index allocation

Hole 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Stroke Index

7 15 5 11 1 13 3 17 9 8 16 6 12 2 14 4 18 10

When a Committee decides to amend an 18-hole stroke index allocation to create a 9-hole equivalent:

Example of an amended front nine 9-hole stroke index allocation

Hole 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Stroke Index 4 8 3 6 1 7 2 9 5


72

Appendix F - Establishing Par

The Rules of Handicapping feature par as a factor in the calculation of:

• Net par (for hole(s) not played) • Net double bogey (maximum hole score for handicap purposes) • Course Handicap which includes a Course Rating–par adjustment

It is important that an accurate par be established for each hole on a golf course for both men and women, and these values should be printed alongside each hole on the scorecard.

It is recommended that par be established for each hole in accordance with the following hole lengths:

Par Men Women

3 Up to 260 yards (240 metres)

Up to 220 yards (200 metres)

4 240 to 490 yards (220 to 450 metres)

200 to 420 yards (180 to 380 metres)

5 450 to 710 yards (410 to 650 metres)

370 to 600 yards (340 to 550 metres)

6 670 yards and up (610 metres and up)

570 yards and up (520 metres and up)

Note: These guidelines assume an altitude less than 2,000 feet/610 metres above sea level.

• Par reflects the score a scratch player is expected to score on a given hole and may be allocated depending on the playing difficulty of the hole, including any effective length correction factors, for example, elevation changes, forced lay ups and prevalent wind.

• Where a hole length falls within two par ranges, for example 470 yards (men) or 400 yards (women), the par may be allocated as 4 or 5 depending on the difficulty of the hole.

• Where a hole length falls within two par ranges, it may be appropriate to designate par relative to the way the hole was designed to be played. For example, if the hole lengths from all sets of tees on a specific hole lie within the recommended par 4 range for men, with the exception of the forward tee at 250 yards, this hole can still be designated as a par 4 hole due the way the hole is designed to be played.

Appendix G - The Golf Course, Course Rating and Slope Rating Course Measurement, Course Rating and Slope Rating, and Modification of Courses

a. General


73

An Authorized Association is responsible for determining Course Ratings and Slope Ratings for the golf courses within its jurisdiction (see Definition of golf course).

b. Course Measurement Each hole must be measured to the nearest yard/metre, for each set of tees from a permanent distance marker, in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Course Rating System.

c. Tee Markers The tee markers used to designate each set of tees on a golf course should be consistent in name, colour and/or design and distinguishable from the tee markers used for other sets of tees. It is strongly recommended that the Authorized Association issues guidance to golf clubs as to how these avoid any association with gender or age.

d. Display of Ratings and Par The Course Rating, Slope Rating and par for each set of tees must be readily available so that it is easy for a player to convert their Handicap Index to a Course Handicap and Playing Handicap to submit an acceptable score. e. Course Rating and Slope Rating The Course Rating and Slope Rating is the evaluation of the playing difficulty of the course for the scratch player and the bogey player under normal playing conditions. The effective playing length is determined from the measurement of each hole, adjusted for the impact of roll, wind, elevation changes, altitude, dog-legs and forced lay ups. In addition to the effective playing length, there are 10 obstacle factors evaluated on each hole for both the scratch player and the bogey player. These are: topography; fairway; green target; recoverability and rough; bunkers; penalty areas – crossing; penalty areas – lateral; trees; green surface and psychology. The Course Rating System uses table values, adjustments and formulas to calculate ratings. The Course Rating is calculated from the effective playing length and obstacle factors for 9 or 18 designated holes. The Course Rating is expressed in strokes to one decimal point and represents the expected score for a scratch player. The Bogey Rating represents the expected score for a bogey player. The difference between the Course Rating and the Bogey Rating is used in the determination of the Slope Rating. A golf course of standard relative difficulty has a Slope Rating of 113. The front of a teeing area, as defined in the Rules of Golf, should not be placed more than 10 yards (9 metres) in front of, or behind, the relevant permanent distance marker on each hole. Overall, the golf course should not be shortened (or lengthened) by more than 100 yards (100 metres) from its measured length, to ensure accurate application of the Course Rating and Slope Rating in the calculation of players’ Score Differentials.


74

f. Modification of Courses

(i) Temporary Changes

The Handicap Committee must notify the Authorized Association when temporary changes are being made to the golf course that may affect the Course Rating. The Authorized Association will determine whether scores made under those conditions are acceptable for handicap purposes, and whether the Course Rating and Slope Rating should be modified temporarily.

For an 18-hole golf course:

If approved by the Authorized Association, the issuance of a temporary Course Rating and Slope Rating is determined by the Handicap Committee and/or the Authorized Association following the procedure set out below:

• Locate the nearest set of rated tees for the appropriate gender. • Determine the measured difference between the set of tees being played and the rated

set of tees. • For differences under 100 yards (100 metres), no adjustment is necessary and scores can

be submitted as usual; otherwise • For differences between 100 and 300 yards (100 and 274 metres), the below table can be

used to determine the adjustments required and issue a temporary Course Rating and Slope Rating.

Using these guidelines and the table below, find the range that includes the yardage difference:

Men’s Rating Adjustment Women’s Rating Adjustment

Yards [Metres]

Change to Course Rating

Change to Slope Rating

Yards [Metres]



100 to 120 [100 to 110]

0.5 1 100 to 116 [100 to 110] 0.6 1

121 to 142 [111 to 130]

0.6 1 117 to 134 [111 to 122]

0.7 1

143 to 164 [131 to 150]

0.7 2 135 to 152 [123 to 139]

0.8 2

165 to 186 [151 to 170]

0.8 2 153 to 170 [140 to 155]

0.9 2

187 to 208 [171 to 190]

0.9 2 171 to 188 [156 to 172]

1.0 2

209 to 230 [191 to 210]

1.0 2 189 to 206 [173 to 188]

1.1 2


75

231 to 252 [211 to 230]

1.1 3 207 to 224 [189 to 205]

1.2 2

253 to 274 [231 to 250]

1.2 3 225 to 242 [206 to 221]

1.3 3

275 to 300 [251 to 274]

1.3 3 243 to 260 [222 to 238]

1.4 3

*Please contact your Authorized Association for any adjustment greater than 300 yards (274

metres)

261 to 278 [239 to 254]

1.5 3

279 to 300 [255 to 274]

1.6 3


metres) Note: These guidelines assume an altitude less than 2,000 feet/610 metres above sea level.

• If the unrated tees are longer than the rated tees, add the resulting table values to the ratings of the nearest set of tees rated for the appropriate gender.

• If the unrated tees are shorter than the rated tees, subtract the resulting values from the ratings of the nearest set of tees rated for the appropriate gender.

• For differences above 300 yards (274 metres), play for the day would be ineligible for handicap purposes, unless otherwise determined by the Authorized Association in advance of the round or competition.

For a 9-hole golf course:

If approved by the Authorized Association, the issuance of a temporary Course Rating and Slope Rating is determined by the Handicap Committee and/or Authorized Association following the procedure set out below:

• Locate the nearest set of rated tees for the appropriate gender. • Determine the measured difference between the set of tees being played and the rated

set of tees. • For differences under 50 yards (50 metres), no adjustment is necessary and scores can be

returned or posted as usual; otherwise • For differences between 50 and 150 yards (50 and 137 metres), the table below can be

used to determine the adjustment and issue a temporary Course Rating and Slope Rating.

Where a temporary Course Rating and Slope Rating has been issued, this information must be made available to players prior to the commencement of their round.

Using these guidelines and the table below, find the range that includes the yardage difference:


76

Men’s Rating Adjustment Women’s Rating Adjustment

Yards [Metres]



Yards [Metres]



50 to 76 [50 to 69]

0.3 1 50 to 62

[50 to 57] 0.3 1

77 to 98 [70 to 90]

0.4 2 63 to 80

[58 to 73] 0.4 2

99 to 120 [91 to 110]

0.5 2 81 to 98

[74 to 90] 0.5 2

121 to 142 [111 to 130]

0.6 3 99 to 116

[91 to 106] 0.6 2

143 to 150 [131 to 137]

0.7 3 117 to 134

[107 to 122] 0.7 3


metres)

135 to 150 [123 to 137]

0.8 3


metres) Notes:

1. Any adjustment to the Course Rating and Slope Rating must be issued and communicated prior to the commencement of play on the day.

2. If playing a combination of different sets of tees, a current Course Rating and Slope Rating must be available to submit an acceptable score. If the Committee in charge of a competition has used a combination of tees for a competition course, this temporary rating procedure may be used, but this procedure is not a substitute for a formal or permanent Course Rating and Slope Rating.

(ii) Permanent Changes

A golf club must notify the Authorized Association when permanent changes are made to a golf course. Permanent changes to the golf course require the Authorized Association to review the current Course Rating and Slope Rating and to determine whether a re-rating is necessary.

Documents

Comparison of Key Features CONFIDENTIAL Rules of Handicapping 09 25 2019.pdf · This presents a change to AGAs, golf clubs and golfers. 5.7 Low Handicap Index USGA has no such feature